November 3, 2017

The Novel Interventions in Children's Healthcare program at Doernbecher Children's Hospital has been making waves since it began six years ago. Now, NICH has been recognized with the inaugural Pediatric Excellence Award from Press Ganey. Michael Harris, Ph.D., professor of pediatrics in the OHSU School of Medicine, attended the Press Ganey 2017 National Client Conference in Orlando, Fla., to accept the award on behalf of Doernbecher.

NICH was developed in 2011 by Dr. Harris and Kim Spiro, Ph.D., assistant professor of pediatrics, along with the Institute on Development and Disability, as a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Doernbecher and regional insurance providers that works to improve care, reduce costs and advance health for youth whose medical needs are compounded by social problems. Learn more about NICH.

In introducing the new Pediatric Excellence Award this year, Press Ganey sought to recognize a standalone pediatric hospital, hospital within a system, or unit that has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the delivery of pediatric care. Press Ganey acknowledged NICH's success: "through its proactive outreach to patients and education of their families, the NICH pilot has decreased emergency department visits, reduced hospitalizations, and decreased hospital days and direct medical costs."

"We are honored to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our 2017 award winners. The individuals and organizations recognized today have demonstrated extraordinary vision and commitment to improving the patient experience, reducing suffering, and enhancing caregiver resilience," said Patrick T. Ryan, CEO, Press Ganey, in a press release. "All of us at Press Ganey are continuously inspired by our clients' achievements, and we are proud to partner with them to improve the delivery of safe, high-quality, patient-centered care."

Press Ganey provides patient experience measurement, performance analytics and strategic advisory solutions for health care organizations across the continuum of care. Three other awards were given out during the national conference: Physician of the Year, Nurse of the Year and Team of the Year.

Pictured (left to right): Press Ganey President and COO Joe Greskoviak, Press Ganey CEO Patrick Ryan, Dr. Michael Harris, and Press Ganey President and CMO of Strategic Consulting, Dr. James Merlino.

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