BLOOMINGTON, Ill. - OSF St. Joseph Medical Center has achieved Magnet designation for excellence in nursing services by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). OSF St. Joseph Medical Center is the first hospital in McLean County to achieve Magnet Recognition, and only the 17th in the state of Illinois.

“Magnet Recognition recognizes the excellent work our nurses do each day and reflects the commitment of our entire staff to serve as a team, providing the highest quality care possible for the people of our community.” said Ken Natzke, President and CEO of OSF St. Joseph Medical Center.
Magnet Recognition lasts four years, during which time the ANCC monitors the hospital closely to ensure it maintains high standards of care.

The Magnet Recognition Program recognizes healthcare organizations that demonstrate excellence in nursing practice and adherence to national standards for the organization and delivery of nursing services. The ANCC’s 11-member Commission on Magnet made a unanimous decision to make OSF St. Joseph Medical Center a Magnet hospital.

Magnet applicants undergo a rigorous evaluation process, including written documentation of 14 specific areas of nursing practice called Forces of Magnetism. Hospitals also partake in extensive interviews and an on-site review of nursing services. OSF St. Joseph has been working toward this recognition since 2004.

The Commission on Magnet recognizes 307 healthcare organizations in 45 states, as well as one each in Australia and New Zealand, for their excellence in nursing.
ANCC is the world's largest and most prestigious nurse credentialing organization, and a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association.

-30-

OSF St. Joseph Medical Center is a 157-licensed bed, not for profit, acute care, and Level II Trauma Center facility, fully accredited by the Joint Commission. OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, located in Bloomington, Ill., is part of the OSF Healthcare System. In the spirit of Christ and the example of Francis of Assisi, the Mission of OSF HealthCare is to serve persons with the greatest care and love in a community that celebrates the Gift of Life.