For Immediate Release

For more information, contact:
Gloria O'Connell, 612-863-4801

Allina hospitals recognized as top performers on key quality measures

MINNEAPOLIS 09/19/2011--Cambridge Medical Center, New Ulm Medical Center and River Falls Area Hospital are among the nation's top performers on key quality measures, according to The Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of health care organizations in America.

Improving America's Hospitals

For the first time, The Joint Commission's annual report on quality and safety lists hospitals that are top performers in using evidence-based care processes closely linked to positive patient outcomes. The 405 organizations identified as top performers represent about 14 percent of Joint Commission-accredited hospitals.

To see the list of top performing hospitals, download the report at jointcommission.org.

The three hospitals, among only 405 in the U.S. to earn the distinction, are also among the smallest Allina hospitals. The Allina hospitals in Cambridge, New Ulm and River Falls (Wis.) have 81; 35, and 25 staffed beds, respectively. In contrast, those in Minneapolis and St. Paul have 643 and 398.

"This recognition shows that what we believe is possible -- that excellent health care should be available to everyone regardless of where they live," said Kenneth H. Paulus, president and CEO of Allina Hospitals & Clinics.

This is the first year of the Joint Commission's recognition program and is based on data reported about evidence-based clinical processes that are shown to improve care for certain conditions, including heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, surgical care and children's asthma.

"Today, the public expects transparency in the reporting of performance at the hospitals where they receive care, and The Joint Commission is shining a light on the top performing hospitals that have achieved excellence on a number of vital measures of quality of care," says Mark R. Chassin, MD, president of The Joint Commission.

In addition to being included in The Joint Commission's "Improving America's Hospitals" annual report, the hospitals will be recognized on The Joint Commission's Quality Check website.

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.