Office of Nursing Services (ONS)

Nursing Excellence Collaborative Journey

The Magnet Recognition Program® recognizes health care organizations for quality patient care, nursing excellence and innovations in professional nursing practice. Similarly, the Pathway to Excellence Program® is the premier designation for healthy work environments and recognizes health care organizations and Long Term Care organizations for positive practice environments where nurses excel. Both programs recognize facilities that demonstrate nursing excellence and innovation in practice and leadership which result in positive nurse satisfaction and low turnover and vacancy rates. These qualities, when combined with collaborative interdisciplinary professional practice, promote excellence in health care delivery and enhancement of an organization’s overall health. This page is designed to offer guidance and resources for nurse leaders seeking Magnet® designation and/or Pathway to Excellence® designation. Current American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)-designated VHA Magnet and Pathway facilities are listed below. Useful resources are also listed below to aid in navigating the Magnet® and/or Pathway to Excellence® Journey. In addition to the current 3 designated Magnet® facilities and 10 designated Pathway to Excellence® facilities, more than 20 additional facilities are in some phase of formal application and another 70 plus have adopted Magnet® and/or Pathway to Excellence® principles.

Magnet Recognition Program® Resources

Current VA Facilities with Magnet Recognition and Contacts:
Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Portland VA Medical Center  
William S. Middleton VA Medical Center 

Magnet video:  wmv version 14 min 48 sec
ANCC Magnet Recognition Program® website
ANCC Magnet FAQs

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