“Few things affect the quality of our life and the quality of our work more than our good health,” said Governor Jennifer M. Granholm in a press release issue to hospitals. “Every person in this great state deserves to receive quality health care from their providers, so I am pleased to recognize hospitals and health care professionals that are making progress toward providing our citizens with accessible and affordable health care.” The Governor’s Award honors Michigan hospitals that are performing quality initiatives aimed at improving outcomes in patient care. Pneumonia is a clinical topic designated as a national health care priority by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

“Through the efforts of a multidisciplinary team we have implemented policies that ensure patients are treated at a level according to or exceeding national guidelines for pneumonia,” said Ronald Bissett, M.D., medical director for quality improvement and patient safety at OSF St. Francis Hospital. “Patients who present with symptoms of pneumonia are diagnosed and begin receiving antibiotics at a level that meets or exceeds national guidelines.

“We are providing the very best in medical treatment and care, and we are extremely proud to be a recipient of this distinguished award. It is a credit to our staff and physicians for their continued efforts to improve care in our communities.”

The Governor’s Award of Excellence is part of the Michigan Peer Review Organization (MPRO) and Michigan’s Medicare Quality Improvement Organization.

“Governor Granholm’s endorsement of this quality improvement award mirrors her agenda in her administration’s commitment to improve the quality of health care for all of Michigan’s residents,” said Debra L. Moss, MD, MBA, president and chief executive officer, MPRO. Dr. Moss added, “MPRO is privileged to partner with the Governor to recognize hospitals such as OSF St. Francis Hospital that are achieving measured improvements in patient care.”

St. Francis Hospital is part of OSF Healthcare System, owned and operated by the Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis.