APRIL 29 – WASHINGTON – A recent update from the CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) reveals that 374 hospitals across the nation received five-star cleanliness ratings based on the most recent HCAHPS (Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems) surveys. Among these, 45 physician-owned hospitals were specifically recognized for leading the nation in cleanliness – a disproportionately high number given that such physician-owned hospitals make up only five percent of all U.S. hospitals.
This recognition underscores cleanliness as a critical component of patient safety and infection control. The data, gathered from inpatient experience surveys completed between April 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, reflects patient perspectives on hospital environments, emphasizing the importance of clean and welcoming healthcare settings.
“When it comes to cleanliness and hygiene, a spotless healthcare environment is one of the most crucial pieces to get right,” said Joseph Alhadeff, MD, MMM, President of PHA. “Research has shown that up to 50 percent of people experience some form of fear or anxiety when visiting a hospital. Creating a welcoming, clean environment and maintaining it is critical to putting visitors and patients at ease within healthcare settings. Not only do our hospitals have higher quality and lower costs, but we have better outcomes because we take cleanliness seriously, as the recent HCAHPS survey proves.”
Numerous studies show that maintaining high levels of cleanliness directly correlates with infection prevention and control (IPC) measures critical to patient care and safety. Hospitals recognized in the five-star category are setting benchmarks for IPC practices and are reducing risks of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) through intentional hygiene protocols.
“Even the most skilled physicians cannot offset the risks posed by poor hospital cleanliness, as it greatly increases the likelihood of patient infections. At our hospitals, patient safety is the cornerstone of our mission and vision. By prioritizing rigorous cleanliness standards and fostering strong physician leadership, we achieve lower infection rates and improved patient outcomes. When physicians lead, patients thrive,” said Carlos Cardenas, MD, PHA President-Elect.
PHA hospitals are particularly proud of their dedication to cleanliness and quality, which significantly contributes to superior patient experiences and outcomes.
This achievement also highlights the growing awareness of the importance of maintaining pristine hospital environments to uphold trust within the healthcare community. From patient rooms to common areas, every detail matters, and these recognitions reaffirm that commitment.
For more information about these recognitions or to access the full list of cleanest hospitals, visit the CMS HCAHPS database.
About Physician-Led Healthcare for America
Founded in 2001, Physician-Led Healthcare for America serves as the stakeholder voice for physician-led hospitals and other physician-led entities that focus on the patient-physician relationship.
Visit www.physicianled.us to learn more.