Allina Hospitals & Clinics receives prestigious awards for patient experience work

07/27/2011--Because patients rated their hospital experiences as far surpassing what they expected, six Allina hospitals have received Exceeding Expectations awards from Avatar International, a leader in patient survey data that provides measurement tools for thousands of hospitals across the country.

Additionally, Allina's Patient Experience Team won Avatar's Blue Sail Award that recognizes innovators who have transformed "blue sky" ideas or a best practice into effective actions.

"I'm proud of what we have accomplished and excited to see what lies ahead," said Tomi Ryba, Allina's executive leader of Patient Experience and president of United Hospital.

"Our physicians and employees are fully engaged and committed to exceed the expectations of those we serve. Best practices that differentiate Allina and place us as a leader in Minnesota and in the country are what our patients deserve."

Mercy Hospital; New Ulm Medical Center; River Falls Area Hospital; Owatonna Hospital; St. Francis Regional Medical Center, and United Hospital received the Exceeding Expectations Award by performing above the fiftieth percentile on key survey items related to their ability to outperform their patients' expectations.

Allina's winning application for the Blue Sail Award focused on how input from a patient advisory council has driven the company's strategy to improve patient experience.

About Allina Hospitals & Clinics

Allina Hospitals & Clinics is a not-for-profit system of hospitals, clinics and other health care services, providing care throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Allina owns and operates 11 hospitals, more than 90 clinics and specialty care centers, and specialty medical services that provide hospice care, oxygen and home medical equipment, pharmacies, and emergency medical transportation services.

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