UH Samaritan Medical Center Earns National Recognition with a Top Hospital Safety Grade

ASHLAND, Ohio -University Hospitals (UH) Samaritan Medical Center's relentless focus on Zero Harm initiatives has resulted in an "A" Hospital Safety Grade, a national recognition from The Leapfrog Group which celebrates hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers that protect patients from preventable harm and errors.

"Less than 30 percent of the nearly 3,000 hospitals across the country achieve this high mark," explained Sylvia Radziszewski, RRT, MBA, Chief Operating Officer, UH Samaritan Medical Center. "At UH Samaritan Medical Center, we have diligently focused on eliminating preventable harm, such as hospital-acquired infections and conditions and pressure ulcers. We consistently focus on the basics like good hand hygiene, regular rounding and communication among nurses, physicians and other caregivers. We also have processes in place that ensure we are tracking our efforts to keep patients safe."

The Leapfrog Group assigns an "A," "B," "C," "D" or "F" grade to hospitals across the country twice each year based on more than 30 national performance measures reflecting errors, accidents, injuries and infections, as well as systems hospitals have in place to prevent harm. These publicly available hospital grades are intended as an important tool to empower patients.

"Outstanding clinical care and an exceptional patient experience are no accident," Radziszewski added. "I am very thankful to our caregivers for ensuring safe, quality care for our patients each day. UH Samaritan's secret sauce is that all of our caregivers bear this responsibility with the highest regard."

The grading system is peer-reviewed, fully transparent, and free to the public. Grades are updated twice annually, in the fall and spring. UH Samaritan Medical Center also received "A" grades in fall and spring of 2023. To see full grade details and access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit HospitalSafetyGrade.org.