Hospitals tout their awards and recognitions so frequently, it seems the real achievements are often lost in the accolades. The plaques and certificates lose their significance. But the reality is, such recognitions are very important to clinicians and associates who commit themselves every day to providing a safe and positive patient experience. And more importantly, they’re important to consumers and patients, who may need a little direction on where to get specialized care.US News & World Report's 2012-2013 “Best Hospitals” rankings were published recently with the caveat that most patients who are in need of an uncomplicated coronary bypass surgery can probably get it successfully at any heart hospital. It’s when the patient is facing surgery with technical challenges, or whose age or physical condition multiplies their risk, a good hospital isn’t enough.
US News & World Report called MedStar Union Memorial Hospital one of the nation’s “Best Hospitals” for Orthopedics and Cardiology & Heart Surgery… not because we do a good job. It’s because MedStar Union Memorial has exceptional surgeons who can replace an aortic valve in a high-risk patient in his 90s. We were identified for orthopedics because of the diversity of talent that enables us to correct a multitude of highly complicated issues ranging from the cervical spine down to the toe. Because of the gravity and scope of these cases, many have been turned away at other hospitals. Our experts are internationally respected, and sought, and I cannot understate the pride we feel here to be on the list for a sixth straight year.
This is a recognition based on objective data in several categories which pass several phases of scrutiny just to be considered. Only 148 hospitals out of the nearly 5000 surveyed, met the criteria to rank in at least one of the 16 specialty areas. That makes MedStar Union Memorial Hospital pretty special.
Bradley S. Chambers
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