Sarasota Memorial Hospital

Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH) is a nonprofit hospital located in Sarasota, Florida. It was established in 1925 and has grown to become one of the largest acute care hospitals in the region, providing exceptional health services to people in southwest Florida. As a regional referral center, SMH offers a full range of health services including emergency care, surgery, cancer care, diagnostic imaging, rehabilitation, maternity and neonatal intensive care, and many more.

With a total of 839 beds, SMH is the county’s only public hospital and has become a trusted name in the community. It serves over 1 million people in the region, including patients from Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, and North Port. It employs more than 7,500 staff members, including physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who work together to provide top-notch services to their patients.

One of the most significant achievements of SMH is its recognition as a Magnet Hospital, which is one of the highest achievements for nursing excellence in the United States. The hospital aced the accreditation process and became the only hospital in Sarasota to be recognized as a Magnet Hospital in 2018. This status is awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to hospitals that meet strict criteria, including exceptional nursing care, evidence-based practice, quality patient outcomes, and strong nurse leadership. This recognition highlights the hospital’s commitment to providing high-quality patient care through the efforts of dedicated and skilled nurses.

SMH has also been recognized for its cancer care program. The hospital’s cancer care services have been awarded accreditation by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This is a prestigious recognition that is awarded to cancer programs that provide comprehensive, high-quality, and patient-centered cancer care services. The hospital’s staff members work with the latest technology to provide treatments such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and advanced surgical procedures to treat various forms of cancer. In addition to traditional cancer treatments, SMH also offers supportive care services such as nutritional counseling, wellness programs, and support groups.

SMH has also received recognition for its cardiac care services. Its cardiac program is accredited by the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care (SCPC) and has earned a three-star rating from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons for its adult cardiac surgery. These accreditations reflect the hospital’s commitment to providing high-quality cardiac care services, including diagnostic services, interventional cardiology, and electrophysiology.

Another significant recognition that SMH received is the Women’s Choice Award, which was awarded in 2020 for its orthopedic care, cardiovascular care, bariatric surgery, and cancer care services. The Women’s Choice Award, which is based on national surveys, is given to select hospitals that have been recognized as leaders in women’s health, providing exemplary services to women in their communities.

Apart from providing exceptional healthcare services, SMH is also committed to giving back to the community through its various community outreach programs. The hospital partners with local organizations and sponsors various educational events, health fairs, and screening programs to promote community health and wellness.

In conclusion, Sarasota Memorial Hospital has established itself as a premier healthcare provider in southwest Florida. It has received numerous recognitions for its exceptional health services, including nursing, cancer care, cardiac care, and women’s health services. The hospital’s commitment to providing high-quality care through skilled and dedicated staff members, coupled with its community outreach programs, has earned it a reputation as a trusted name in the region.