HMH Earns Second 'A' Safety Rating from The Leapfrog Group

Leaders cite consistent infection control measures to ensure patient safety

The Leapfrog Group released its bi-annual hospital safety grades this week, giving Hardin Memorial Health (HMH) an “A” rating for the second consecutive time. The national nonprofit evaluates and reports the safety and quality performance of more than 2,600 hospitals nationwide. Of the 46 hospitals rated in Kentucky, only 10 received an “A” rating.

Leapfrog looks at publicly available safety measures – inpatient injuries, infections, and medical and medication errors.

“A total team commitment to evidence-based infection control practices is the key to earning this ‘A’ rating for the second time in a row,” said Sharon Wright, HMH Vice President, Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer. “This all equals better patient outcomes and when it comes to this rating, taking even better care of patients is what matters to us.”

Wright also thanked patient visitors and their families for their role in the success.

“Everyone who comes to the hospital plays a role in infection control,” said Wright. “We ask everyone to practice proper hand hygiene and follow visitor guidelines.”

The visitor restrictions HMH had in place during the height of flu season were a necessary inconvenience to protect patients, Wright said.

Wright said as with any national rating or ranking, the HMH team will review the results and determine where they can improve.

“Providing the very best and safest patient care is a constant priority,” she said.