UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies, based in Loveland, Colorado, has once again received national acclaim for its outstanding achievements in nursing excellence, securing its fourth successive Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). As an emblem of superior quality in patient care and nursing practice, the Magnet designation is a badge of honor held by fewer than 10% of hospitals nationwide. The hospital’s re-designation was announced amidst jubilation, with chair of the ANCC Commission on Magnet Recognition, David Marshall, sharing the exciting news through a virtual call.
The Magnet Recognition Program sets the benchmark for excellent nursing practices and high-quality patient care. Hospitals seeking this prestigious recognition must pass a stringent evaluation process, showcasing outstanding outcomes in patient care, nursing satisfaction, and clinical performance. Marshall extended his commendations to the MCR team whose robust performance consistently surpasses national benchmarks in myriad areas. These include:
- Stellar infection prevention and patient safety protocols prevalent across all inpatient units
- Outstanding patient experiences with special emphasis on education and safety
- An impressively qualified workforce, with 83% of their registered nurses possessing a minimum of a bachelor’s degree
Since their initial Magnet designation in 2010, which comprised a two-year surveillance phase followed by a four-year designation term, MCR has diligently upheld its excellence, earning re-designations in 2016, 2021, and 2025. Jessie Willard, MCR Chief Nursing Officer, highlighted the resilience, determination and unwavering commitment to excellence demonstrated by the team, especially amidst the adversities faced over the past four years. She emphasized the vital role played by each team member in effecting top-flight patient care.
Since their last Magnet re-designation, there have been several notable advancements at the hospital: expansion of critical care services, gaining Level I Trauma Center status, and launching an interventional program for thrombectomy stroke care to name but a few. In addition to these accomplishments, the hospital is gearing up for the inauguration of a new inpatient pavilion slated for next year. The hospital’s journey towards sustaining its Magnet designation was achieved through an exhaustive application process which required substantial documentation, evidence, and data outcomes.
To be eligible, the hospital needed to exceed national standards in key result areas such as patient satisfaction, nursing satisfaction, and health outcomes, thereby underlining the profound impact of its nursing care. As part of the assessment process, ANCC Magnet appraisers conducted a three-day site visit to verify the hospital’s practices and performance. At present, 18 Colorado hospitals bear the Magnet designation, four of which come under the UCHealth umbrella.