Mercy Medical Center Colleagues Celebrate Third Consecutive Grade ‘A’ Hospital Safety Score

SPRINGFIELD — Mercy Medical Center colleagues gathered in the Deliso Conference Center throughout the day on March 17 to celebrate the hospital’s third consecutive Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade of ‘A’ for fall 2021. With a St. Patrick’s Day-themed event, colleagues received long-sleeve T-shirts that marked the achievement and enjoyed sweet treats. They were also congratulated and thanked for their efforts by members of Mercy’s executive leadership team.

Leapfrog is a national distinction in which most hospitals participate across the U.S. by submitting safety data to Leapfrog for assessment. This ‘A’ score recognizes Mercy Medical Center’s achievements in providing patients a safe environment of care and protecting patients by demonstrating a high level of safety protocols.

“Receiving a third consecutive ‘A’ safety grade from Leapfrog is not only an unprecedented accomplishment, it also demonstrates Mercy’s strong, across-the-board commitment to our patients, a commitment that permeates every level of our organization, from leadership, affiliated and employed primary-care providers and specialists, hospital-based providers, to all support staff. We are very grateful for this team effort,” said Deborah Bitsoli, president of Mercy Medical Center and Trinity Health Of New England Medical Group.

Michelle Theroux, board chair for Mercy Medical Center, also attended the event to greet colleagues and show her support. “I’m thrilled to celebrate this extraordinary milestone with everyone here at Mercy. The third consecutive ‘A’ safety grade from Leapfrog is clear evidence of our overarching dedication to high-quality care and patient safety,” she said.

Although Sr. Mary Caritas was unable to attend the event, she sent along her best wishes. “Congratulations to all Mercy colleagues on this tremendous achievement,” the former Mercy Medical Center president wrote. “While patient safety is always a critical element to high-quality patient care, it became especially vital with the additional burden of protecting patients and staff from the ravages of COVID-19. You all clearly met the challenge, and this third consecutive ‘A’ grade is truly a cause for rejoicing. On behalf of the Sisters of Providence, thank you and know that we are proud of every one of you.”

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only hospital-rating program based exclusively on hospital prevention of medical errors and harm to patients. The grading system is peer-reviewed, fully transparent, and free to the public. Grades are updated twice annually, in the fall and spring.