Magnet Designation for FIVE Plano hospitals is "a very big deal"

By Cindy Boykin

It's 2:59 p.m. Over a hundred people—nurses, doctors, administrative staff—sit in a large conference suite at The Medical Center of Plano waiting for a phone call.

Sandy Haire, RN, Chief Nursing Officer, glances down at the phone placed on a table, front and center. "My heart is beating so fast," she laughs a bit anxiously.

At 3 p.m. on the dot, the phone rings and a hush settles in the room. On the line is the chair of the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Magnet Recognition Program calling with exciting news.

"It is a pleasure for me to be calling you today," the voice begins. "The committee has reviewed all your documents, and as a result of the review, it is my high honor to announce that The Medical Center of Plano has again received Magnet recognition."

View a Slideshow

After celebratory clapping and cheers quiet down, the roomful of medical professionals listen to accolades that are well deserved. This marks the second time that The Medical Center of Plano has been awarded Magnet recognition. The first time was in 2007.

Magnet is a voluntary credentialing program which is focused on excellence in nursing. The credential it confers is the highest honor a healthcare organization can receive for professional nursing practice.

"Earning Magnet recognition the first time was a great accomplishment and a tremendous source of pride for our nurses," said Troy A. Villarreal, FACHE, President and Chief Executive Officer. "Securing this credential for an additional four years is further validation of the culture of excellence that drives our entire staff to do a better job each day meeting the healthcare needs of the people we serve."

Or as Haire simply stated, "This is a very big deal!"

Although The Medical Center of Plano was the first local hospital to be awarded the designation twice, they are not alone in this outstanding achievement.