For the seventh year in a row, the Grundy County Memorial Hospital Emergency Department has received national recognition for Patient Satisfaction. The 2015 Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award recognizes the top 5% of hospitals nationwide, based on patient surveys for a one-year period. Pictured with the seven consecutive awards are members of the emergency staff: front row, from left, Jeannie Larson, Terri Phelps RN, Sara Hook RN, Rachel Clark RN. Back row, from left, Kerry Christie, Troy Busma RN, Dr. Keith Ruffcorn, Mike Nelsestuen RN, Dr. Lenard Kerr Photo submitted

GRUNDY CENTER The Grundy County Memorial Hospital (GCMH) Emergency Department is recognized among the best in the nation in patient experience, based on patient surveys compiled by national health care consulting firm Press Ganey. The award marks the seventh year the hospital has ranked in the top five percent of more than 1,800 emergency departments throughout the nation.

The GCMH Emergency Department has consistently ranked among the nation’s top performers in patient experience. The hospital first received the award in 2009, and has been recognized at the national level each year. GCMH CEO Jennifer Havens says sustaining excellence has required teamwork and dedication. “Consistent and personal care has been the centerpiece of what we deliver as a small, rural health care organization. This award recognizes our associate’s efforts on the national level, which is very rewarding,” she remarks. “Our team demonstrates a commitment to excellence in how they deliver care each and every day, and I’m very proud of their dedication.”

GCMH Emergency Department physician Keith Ruffcorn MD says that the small hospital provides a more personal experience for each patient. “Patients are very appreciative of not only the high level of care, but the personal way in which it is provided,” says Ruffcorn. “Receiving recognition based on what our patients say about us is rewarding. Sustaining recognition for seven years demonstrates a consistent, successful approach in delivering emergency care.”

GCMH is a 25-bed critical access hospital located in Grundy Center, serving Grundy County and portions of Butler, Hardin and Tama counties. The hospital is affiliated with UnityPoint Health Waterloo. Press Ganey is a nationwide provider of patient experience measurement and strategic advisory solutions for health care organizations, currently serving more than 22,000 health care facilities.

“We are proud to partner with Grundy County Memorial Hospital,” said Patrick Ryan, CEO of Press Ganey. “This award is a testament to the organization’s leadership in delivering patient-centered care. By achieving and sustaining this level of excellence, Grundy County Memorial Hospital demonstrates a commitment to advancing the overall quality of health care.”