Kaiser Permanente Downey earns second Magnet designation for nursing excellence
DOWNEY — The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) has awarded Downey Medical Center a second Magnet designation in recognition of the hospital’s ongoing commitment to nursing excellence, high-quality patient care and innovation in professional nursing practice.
By earning a second designation, the Kaiser Permanente hospital demonstrated sustained excellence over time and joins an elite group of hospitals nationwide that continue to meet Magnet standards.
“Earning our second Magnet designation places Downey Medical Center among the top 10% of hospitals nationwide and affirms our standing as a world-class hospital,” said Mitch Winnik, senior vice president and area manager. “This recognition reflects the strength of our nursing culture and teamwork, and our continued commitment to striving for even stronger performance and patient outcomes.”
“I’m incredibly proud to work alongside such dedicated colleagues,” said Dr. Laurie Anne Chu, area medical director. “Our Downey motto, ‘Together We Rise,’ reflects who we are, because while we can only go so far on our own, together there is no limit to what we can achieve.”
What is Magnet designation?
The ANCC’s prestigious Magnet designation is the highest national recognition for professional nursing, which is awarded to hospitals that demonstrate excellence in nursing practice, patient care and patient outcomes.
“It’s the gold standard and the highest recognition a health care organization can achieve, and Downey Medical Center has truly earned it,” said Toby Marsh, interim senior vice president, National Patient Care Services, and chief nurse executive at the hospital. “Our goal is for Kaiser Permanente to be the number one place for nurses to practice and for patients to receive high-quality care, and Downey Medical Center is living that commitment every day.”
The Magnet designation is very difficult to obtain. It’s earned through a comprehensive, multi‑year review that includes written documentation, patient outcome data comparison to national benchmarks, and a multi-day on-site visit by ANCC evaluators.
In addition to its second Magnet designation, Downey Medical Center also received 11 Magnet exemplars. They recognize real examples of nurse-led work that resulted in measurable improvements in care and practice. The exemplars received include: recognition for structural empowerment, professional practice, clinical quality, ambulatory nursing and patient experience.
The official ANCC announcement was recently shared in a room filled with excitement, as Downey nurses, leaders and regional and national leaders gathered to listen, cheer and celebrate together.
While addressing the crowd, Chief Nursing Executive, Barbara Murphy, noted: “This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication of our nursing leaders and frontline nurses. Earning a Magnet recognition is not the destination; it marks the beginning of our continued journey to innovate, elevate practice and deliver even more exceptional care for every patient and member we serve.”