Question: Is there some sort of easily available rating system that can help one choose a good hospital?
From: Steve W. of Rahway, NJ
Answer: This question comes up fairly often and I am always happy to respond. It pleases me that consumers are actively looking into the best resources available for their needs, including the best healthcare. It is important, however, to do a self survey. What qualities are important to you? Is it the nurse to patient ratio and the hospitals current staffing? Is it cleanliness, friendliness of the staff, explanations of treatment and medications, written instructions, specialty physicians on staff, technology? There are many resources available to research hospital ratings so I will recommend what I consider to be the top sites. Check whether the hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) which sets the gold standard for care. Other sites are U.S.News & World Reports annual list of the best hospitals by specialties, the Leapfrog Group (www.leapfroggroup.org), HealthGrades (www.healthgrades.com), VIMO (www.vimo.com), the Commonwealth Fund (wwwcmwf.org). Study what quality indicators these sites use (e.g., mortality, reputation, patient volume, advanced technology, professional credentialing, cost) and then compare to your expectations.
In my book, 7 Steps to Your Best Possible Healthcare, I address these issues in great detail. I also provide some practical tips to look for and questions to ask.
Ruthann Russo, PhD, JD, MPH, RHIT, is a healthcare expert with more than 20 years of experience working in and advising healthcare organizations.
