Stanford Health Care, SHC – ValleyCare earn As in patient safety during COVID-19 surge

This winter, even as the number of COVID-19 patients peaked at Stanford Health Care and Stanford Health Care – ValleyCare, both hospitals achieved excellent patient safety grades from a leading watchdog organization.

The Leapfrog Group gave each hospital an A for avoiding medical errors and other preventable harm during the latest grading period, which ran from December 2020 to April 2021. On Jan. 3, Stanford Health Care had its highest number of patients in the hospital because of COVID-19, while ValleyCare experienced its peak on Dec. 28.

“During the most severe health crisis of our generation, the people of Stanford Health Care continue to shine,” said David Entwistle, president and CEO of Stanford Health Care. “This achievement, amid the unprecedented challenges of a global pandemic, is a testament to their unwavering dedication to delivering exemplary patient care. I couldn’t be prouder of our incredible staff, who work tirelessly every day to lift the health of our community.”

Leapfrog, a national nonprofit that publishes hospital-safety assessments twice yearly, announced the grades April 29. The organization evaluates more than 2,600 acute-care hospitals each winter and spring, grading them on measures such as staffing levels, administration of medication, patient falls and how quickly staff respond to patient needs.

“We are pleased that the Leapfrog Group has recognized Stanford Health Care – ValleyCare with an A rating for spring of 2021,” said Rick Shumway, president and CEO of Stanford Health Care – ValleyCare. “This honor celebrates the dedication and commitment throughout our organization to providing the highest quality of care to our community.”

“I’m incredibly proud of our team and their dedication to safety, quality and patient satisfaction, especially during this past year with the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic," he added.