Vail Health Earns Redesignation for Commitment to Nurse Well-Being

Vail Health Hospital has been awarded redesignation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for its commitment to fostering a healthy work environment for its nursing staff. This recognition comes four years after the hospital first received the Pathway to Excellence designation, placing it among a select group of healthcare systems. Vail Health is now one of nine healthcare organizations in Colorado and one of only 275 worldwide to hold this prestigious status.

The redesignation underscores Vail Health’s dedication to empowering its more than 200 nurses by creating a supportive atmosphere that prioritizes staff engagement and professional development. “This redesignation reflects the outstanding culture we have built at Vail Health Hospital — one that values a supportive work environment and emphasizes staff engagement, development, and empowerment,” stated Amanda Veit, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Nursing Officer at Vail Health.

Commitment to Nursing Excellence

The Pathway to Excellence redesignation serves as a global credential that highlights Vail Health Hospital’s commitment to ensuring nurses feel valued and empowered. Nurses at the facility play a vital role in shaping policies and practices that impact patient care. Since 2017, the hospital has seen consistent improvements in job satisfaction, communication, learning opportunities, teamwork, and patient safety due to the engagement of its nursing staff.

Will Cook, President and CEO of Vail Health, emphasized the significance of this redesignation. “Our nurses consistently deliver exceptional care to our community, and this redesignation is a powerful affirmation of their ongoing dedication and excellence,” he remarked. The award’s requirement for re-evaluation every four years highlights the enduring commitment of Vail Health’s nursing staff and leadership to creating a supportive environment that grants nurses autonomy and a strong professional voice.

Advocacy and Support

The Pathway to Excellence designation indicates Vail Health’s continuous encouragement for nurses to participate in decisions that affect care delivery, workflow, and patient safety. Nurse managers within Pathway organizations actively advocate for nursing practice, growth, and leadership development. Vail Health Hospital is committed to undergoing thorough evaluations every four years to maintain this designation.

Philanthropy plays an instrumental role in enabling Vail Health to achieve and sustain significant recognitions such as the Pathway to Excellence. The Vail Health Foundation has been pivotal in supporting additional programs aimed at enhancing the nursing experience.

For more information on the Pathway to Excellence recognition program, interested parties can visit the ANCC’s official website at NursingWorld.org/pathway.