Chicago City Wire

UI Health has achieved Magnet Recognition, a prestigious designation for nursing practice and quality patient care. The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet Recognition Program distinguishes organizations meeting rigorous standards for nursing excellence.

By obtaining this credential, UI Health joins the global community of Magnet-recognized organizations. Only a select group of U.S. healthcare organizations have received this recognition.

“This is a historic moment for our organization,” stated Dr. Tiesa Hughes-Dillard, chief nursing officer at the University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics. “We are a mission-driven organization and the only public academic health center in Chicago. Magnet recognition gives our community the ultimate benchmark to measure the quality of care they receive at UI Health."

Dr. Hughes-Dillard added, “Achieving Magnet recognition also reinforces the culture of excellence that is a cornerstone of how UI Health nurses serve our community.”

Research shows that Magnet recognition provides specific benefits to healthcare organizations and their communities.

“UI Health has made strategic investments in and created a culture around the many tenets Magnet represents — exceptional patient outcomes, outstanding patient experience, and being the best workplace for nurses,” said Dr. Mark Rosenblatt, CEO of the University of Illinois Hospital & Clinics.

The Magnet Model offers a framework for nursing practice, research, and measurement of outcomes. Through this framework, ANCC evaluates applicants on various components to assess an organization’s nursing excellence.

The model's foundation includes elements essential to delivering superior patient care such as quality nursing leadership and collaboration across specialties.

“I am so proud of our journey to Magnet designation,” said Osei Omoike, senior director for Nursing Strategy & Analytics and the Magnet program director at UI Health.