Dear Editor:
Recently, the Leapfrog Group released a nationwide study of patient safety. I commend the organization for compiling such vital information, which is essential for individuals to make very important decisions regarding their healthcare needs. The survey was for a three year period which ended on March 31, 2011. The survey gave Meadowlands Hospital Medical Center a “C” rating. Although the rating was adequate, Meadowlands Hospital strives to do better. During approximately 90 percent of the study period, Meadowlands Hospital was operated by its previous owner, Liberty health System. Since MHA purchased the hospital in late 2010, we have undergone extensive programs to improve all patient services, including, of course, safety. These improvements have included technology, facility and training upgrades. Additionally, Meadowlands Hospital has acquired and installed an EMR with CPOE. Leapfrog’s outdated data insinuated this was a missing element for MHMC. It is important to mention that this survey has many detractors. The world renowned Cleveland Clinic received a “C” rating, and felt uncomfortable with the methodology used in the survey. Other hospitals have dropped out of the Leapfrog system because of a contradiction in data from the various participating agencies. For example, 90 percent of our 2011 and 2012 HCAHPS and Press Ganey scores are the highest in the nation. We are extremely proud of this. I am confident the improvements which have been made to the facility since we purchased it will continue to improve overall patient quality and safety. This will be reflected when using 2011 and 2012 data. Let me pledge to our patients and staff at Meadowlands Hospital Medical Center that we will continue to work toward making the hospital one of North Jersey’s best healthcare facilities.
Sincerely,
Lynn McVey Acting CEO & President