Rapides Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce it has achieved Pathway to Excellence designation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

The Pathway to Excellence designation identifies the elements of interprofessional work environments where nurses can flourish and feel empowered. The designation substantiates nursing job satisfaction at RRMC and identifies it as one of the best places to work.

“The Pathways to Excellence designation is one we’ve been working toward for two years,” said Barbara Griffin, MSN, RN, NE-BC, Rapides Regional Medical Center’s Chief Nursing Officer. “Not every hospital is eligible for this designation and it takes quite a bit of effort to become eligible. In fact, there are only three hospitals in Louisiana ranked as a Pathway of Distinction. We are so proud to be designated.”

The Pathway to Excellence designation is granted based on the confirmed presence of the six Pathway to Excellence Practice Standards:

  • Shared decision-making
  • Leadership
  • Safety
  • Quality
  • Well-being
  • Professional development

Each of those standards, when in place, impacts staffing, cost-saving measures, accountability, improved security measures for staff and patients, increased communication, staff wellness and high levels of professional development.

For an organization to earn the Pathway to Excellence distinction, it must successfully undergo a thorough review process that documents foundational quality initiatives in creating a positive work environment – as defined by nurses and supported by research. These initiatives must be integrated in the facility’s practices, policies and culture. Nurses in an organization validate the presence of the criteria in the organization through a voluntary and confidential online survey.

As a Pathway to Excellence designated organization, RRMC is committed to creating an environment where nurses excel and feel valued as integral members of interprofessional health care teams. This designation confirms to the public that RRMC nurses know their efforts are supported. The honor encourages other nurses to join their colleagues in this desirable and nurturing environment.