The PFAC’s 2019 annual report highlighted Suburban Hospital’s initial designation as a Magnet hospital by the American Nurses Credentialing Council (ANCC).

PFAC Members, Karin Nevius, R.N. (left) who prepared the Magnet application, and Jessica Melton, serving as Suburban’s president and chief operating officer at the time of the photo (right) celebrate the renewal of Suburban’s Magnet designation with PFAC Co-chair and Vice President, CNO, LeighAnn Sidone (center)

The ANCC Magnet recognition is the nation’s highest standard for professional nursing practice, and fewer than 10% of U.S. hospitals receive this designation. In 2023, Suburban was the first hospital in Montgomery County, Maryland, to receive Magnet designation.

To achieve the designation, organizations must pass an intensive evaluation process that demands widespread participation from leadership and staff. This rigorous process includes an electronic application, written patient care documentation and an on-site visit with review by the ANCC Commission on Magnet Recognition. The ANCC site appraisers met with the PFAC during the onsite visit at Suburban Hospital.

In conferring Magnet recognition in 2019, the ANCC cited the close working relationship among Suburban’s nursing staff, the PFAC and PFAs as one of three “exemplars.” Magnet recognition is in effect for four years, and an organization must reapply and demonstrate that it continues to meet the required performance standards. Suburban applied for redesignation in 2023.

PFAs met again with the 2023 Magnet appraisers several times, demonstrating the close cooperation between Suburban’s PFAC and the nursing staff. The ANCC announced in January 2024 that Suburban achieved its second Magnet designation, citing nine exemplars — an unusually high number. The ANCC’s approval mentioned the continuing close relationship between the PFAC and the nursing staff. In particular, the ANCC highlighted the extraordinary performance of LeighAnn Sidone, PFAC co-chair and Suburban Hospital vice president and chief nursing officer.

Suburban staff members and PFAs celebrate the Magnet designation renewal.