Baystate Medical Center Earns Prestigious 5th Consecutive Magnet® Recognition for Nursing Excellence

Baystate Medical Center is proud to announce that it has once again been recognized with Magnet Recognition® by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)—marking its fifth consecutive designation. This rare and prestigious honor is shared by less than one percent of hospitals nationwide, underscoring the exceptional level of nursing care and organizational commitment to excellence at Baystate.

Magnet® Recognition is considered the gold standard for nursing excellence, reflecting not only the quality of patient care but also the strength of nursing leadership, the support for professional development, and the culture of collaboration that defines outstanding healthcare organizations. Achieving this honor five times in a row (20 consecutive years) is a testament to Baystate’s consistent focus on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.

“This recognition affirms what we already know to be true—our nurses are extraordinary,” said Joanne Miller, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, Senior Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive, Baystate Health. “This fifth Magnet® designation is a profound recognition of the extraordinary care, professionalism, and heart that our nurses bring to every patient, every day. It reflects 20 years of sustained nursing excellence and a deep-rooted culture of collaboration across our organization. I could not be prouder of the nursing team and every individual who supports their success.”

"This honor is a reflection of our entire Baystate Medical Center family—all team members who work with and support our nurses. It speaks to our collective commitment to excellence and the power of working together to care for our community. Congratulations to our nurses on this achievement!" said Ron Bryant, President & COO, Baystate Medical Center.

The designation was awarded following a comprehensive review of Baystate’s nursing practices, outcomes, and culture of care. The ANCC highlighted Baystate Medical Center for exemplary performance in several key areas, reflecting not only strong clinical outcomes but also a deep commitment to continuous learning, shared decision-making, and interprofessional teamwork.

“This designation is a tribute to the unwavering dedication of our nurses and the interdisciplinary teams who stand beside them,” said Brenda Rocha, DNP, MBA, RN, Chief Nursing Officer, Baystate Medical Center. “It validates the quality, compassion, and innovation that define care at Baystate Medical Center and the powerful impact we have when we work as one team with one purpose.”

Since first achieving Magnet® status in 2005, Baystate Medical Center has remained dedicated to the principles that define Magnet® organizations: excellence in nursing practice, strong interdisciplinary collaboration, and a culture that supports innovation and resiliency. This recognition reaffirms that commitment and highlights the critical role nurses play in shaping the future of healthcare.

“This is a proud moment for all of us,” said Miller. “I want to thank every nurse, every leader, and every colleague who contributed to this incredible accomplishment. Your commitment to excellence doesn’t just meet expectations—it transforms lives.”