By Roberto M. Robledo, The Salinas Californian | December 8, 2016

SALINAS, Calif. – Natividad Medical Center in Salinas has been named a “Top Hospital” by an acclaimed national group that reviews hospital performance.

The recognition of Natividad by The Leapfrog Group is “one of the most prestigious distinctions a hospital can receive in the U.S.,” according to a press release.

Being named a top hospital “showcases NMC’s commitment to patient safety and quality.”

“The recognition from The Leapfrog Group is a testament to our continued focus on improving processes and care hospital-wide,” said Natividad CEO Dr. Gary Gray. “It awards our efforts in providing high quality health care and minimizing injuries, accidents and infections,” he said.

Natividad was one of 115 Top Hospitals named out of more than 1,800 hospitals reviewed across the country, the press release said. The recognition is based on the results of the Leapfrog Hospital Survey taken this year. Among the performance areas considered for the award are infection rates, maternity care, and prevention of medication errors.

“Being acknowledged as a Top Hospital is an incredible feat achieved by less than three percent of hospitals nationwide,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “With this honor, Natividad Medical Center has established its commitment to safer and higher quality care. Providing this level of care to patients in Monterey County requires motivation and drive from every team member. I congratulate the board, staff and clinicians, whose efforts made this honor possible.”

Twice this year, Natividad also received a safety grade of “A” in The Leapfrog Group’s Hospital Safety Grade, which is based on their record of patient safety.

The nonprofit Leapfrog Group was founded in 2000 by large employers to lead a movement for “giant leaps forward” in the quality and safety of American health care. The Leapfrog Hospital Survey collects and reports hospital performance, giving consumers the information they need to make informed decisions.

Online
The Leapfrog Group: http://www.leapfroggroup.org/