Special to the
Opelika Observer
Becker’s Hospital Review has named its 2014 edition of “100 Great Community Hospitals,” a list based on community hospitals’ accolades, quality and service to their communities, and East Alabama Medical Center made the list.
In fact, EAMC was the only hospital in Alabama to be recognized.
“(EAMC) was named a Healthstrong Top Hospital in 2014 by iVantage Health Analytics as well as a Top Performer in Premier healthcare alliance’s QUEST: High Performing Hospitals collaborative for the second year in a row,” comments the publication in its recognition of EAMC. “In fiscal year 2013, EAMC had 294 volunteers, 2,700 employees and saw 13,595 inpatient visits.”
According to the report, the hospitals chosen for the list have fewer than 550 beds and minimal teaching programs. The report also states that, “Some are located in suburban areas, but many are found in rural areas and serve as the only hospitals in their communities. Whether independent or part of a larger health system, the (listed) hospitals have continually worked to provide the quality of care and the experience patients deserve and expect.”
“This is a nice accolade for our hospital from a very respected publication,” said Terry Andrus, CEO and president. “When awards and recognitions like this are announced, people will often congratulate me. However, it’s our employees, physicians and volunteers who make EAMC what it is. Across the board, our folks strive for the best and are always raising the bar on behalf of our patients. Of course, living in a great community like we do makes it a lot easier to be a great community hospital.”
The 100 Great Community Hospitals list is compiled through a lengthy research and review process.
The editorial team starts a master list of facilities or individuals based on national rankings or original research. The 100 Great Community Hospitals list is compiled without a nomination process and highlights institutions that are consistently lauded by other industry ranking companies.