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Career Resources / Job Searching / Best Hospitals North Carolina

When working in healthcare, you’re allowed many opportunities for growth and advancement. One of these opportunities is moving somewhere else, like North Carolina, which can provide a nice change. 

With Magnet hospitals in North Carolina, you have a chance to work in accredited hospitals that are focused on care for their patients and staff. Magnet hospitals are based on standards set forth by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Less than 600 hospitals in the country have earned this honor.

Every hospital named on this list is a Magnet hospital as determined by the ANCC’s criteria. Let’s read about the best hospitals in North Carolina and what they do to provide quality care.

North Carolina’s Top Hospital

• Atrium Health-Carolinas Medical Center
• Catawba Valley Medical Center
• Duke Raleigh Hospital
• Duke University Hospital
• Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center
• UNC Rex Hospital
• Wakemed, Raleigh Campus

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Best hospitals in North Carolina

The following hospitals have been rated using websites such as the ANCC, U.S. News & World Report, and Medicare. Other trusted employment websites, like Glassdoor and LinkedIn, have also been used to compile their rankings.

Atrium Health-Carolinas Medical Center

Carolinas Medical Center of the Atrium Health network is nationally ranked in 8 pediatric specialties, rated high-performing in 4 adult specialties and 14 procedures and conditions, and regionally ranked number 3 in North Carolina. It is ranked number 1 in Charlotte, and its Children’s division is ranked number 2 in North Carolina and number 5 in the Southeast by the U.S. News & World Report. It has received a designation of 3 out of 5 stars by the federal government. This hospital has also received their fourth consecutive ELSO Award for Excellence in 2020.

Learn more about Atrium Health-Carolinas Medical Center:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Charlotte, NC
• Hospital network: 2 locations
• Physicians: 1,100

Catawba Valley Medical Center

The Catawba Valley Medical Center has received the Premier Excellence in Patient Safety Award by the Premier Hospital Improvement Innovation Network. The federal government has issued it 4 out of 5 stars. It was also awarded the Women’s Choice Awards for America’s Best Hospital for Patient Experience in Obstetrics for 9 years in a row.

Learn more about Catawba Valley Medical Center:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Hickory, NC
• Hospital network: 24 locations
• Employees: 2,000

Duke Raleigh Hospital

Duke Raleigh Hospital has been rated high-performing in 1 adult specialty and 5 procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report. The federal government has given it 3 out of 5 stars. It has also received a Hospital Safety Score “A” from The Leapfrog Group.

Learn more about Duke Raleigh Hospital:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Raleigh, NC
• Hospital network: 1 location
• Employees: 2,000

Duke University Hospital

Duke University Hospital is regionally ranked number 1 in North Carolina, and number 1 in Raleigh-Durham. Its Children’s division has ranked number 1 in North Carolina and number 4 in the Southeast.  Overall, it is nationally ranked in 11 adult specialties and 9 pediatric specialties, and rated high performing in 2 adult specialties and 17 procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report. It has received 4 out of 5 stars from the federal government. It also has a Hospital Safety Score “A” from The Leapfrog Group.

Learn more about Duke University Hospital:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Durham, NC
• Hospital network: 1 location
• Employees: 11,000

Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center

Rated as high-performing in 6 adult procedures and conditions, Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center is also regionally ranked number 16 in North Carolina, and number 3 in Greensboro/Winston-Salem by the U.S. News & World Report. The federal government has given this hospital 4 out of 5 stars. It is also honored with the Gold Achievement Award by American Heart Association Mission: Lifeline Program.

Learn more about Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Winston-Salem, NC
• Hospital network: 15 locations
• Physicians: 1,800

UNC Rex Hospital

UNC Rex Hospital is rated as high-performing in 1 adult specialty and 18 procedures and conditions, and is regionally ranked number 3 in North Carolina and number 3 in Raleigh-Durham by the U.S. News & World Report. It has 5 out of 5 stars from the federal government. It is listed on Newsweek Magazine’s ranking of the “World’s Best Hospitals” for 2021. 

Learn more about UNC Rex Hospital:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Raleigh, NC
• Hospital network: 1 location
• Physicians: 6,400

Wakemed, Raleigh Campus

Nationally ranked in 1 adult specialty, Wakemed, Raleigh Campus is rated as high-performing in 8 adult procedures and conditions, while also being regionally ranked number 12 in North Carolina and number 5 in Raleigh-Durham by the U.S. News & World Report. The federal government has given this hospital 3 out of 5 stars. It is also the best hospital/health system to work for in North Carolina, according to a ranking published by Forbes magazine.

Learn more about Wakemed, Raleigh Campus:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Raleigh, NC
• Hospital network: 1 location
• Nurses: 8,500

What makes a best hospital in North Carolina

Hospitals with Magnet status have many common features, such as impressive benefits, opportunities for growth, and satisfaction for both employees and patients.

Benefits

Beyond their awards and accreditations, hospitals in North Carolina provide value in their salaries and benefits for nurses as well. These can include vacation time, sick leave, employee discounts, financial assistance for certain home buying and tuition programs, wellness benefits, and more.

Growth opportunity

The chance to grow in the healthcare industry is why many nurses pursue this career path. With opportunities to advance as nurse anesthetists (CRNA) or nurse practitioners, nurses seek out new employers for continued education and added responsibilities.

Employee satisfaction

In a healthcare setting, the importance of employee satisfaction should not be overlooked. Positive environments foster higher employee satisfaction, and it also helps to reduce job fatigue or burnout.

High patient satisfaction 

Patient satisfaction is key, and often a reflection of employee satisfaction. Pleasant work environments provide more gratification and peace of mind for both patients and employees.

Other factors that make a top hospital 

Working at a top hospital also means there’s a focus on safety practices, customer service, technological advancements, and ethical practices.

Safety record is critical

Safety should be a priority for a hospital’s standards. Safety records demonstrate a commitment to procedures and protocol. 

To better reduce or prevent infection, healthcare professionals should carry out top-of-the-line techniques and implement safety standards. A majority of hospitals with these measures help to prevent infection.

Hospital policies focus on customer services 

Hospitals are a customer-centric space, and the focus on customer service helps to determine which hospitals are reliable.

When there are policies in place to benefit patients, this demonstrates a level of care and makes hospitals in North Carolina a desirable place for employment.

Latest technology and training improve healthcare

Implementing new technologies and training tools shows care for patients and staff. When hospitals set higher standards for diagnosis and treatment, it improves patient care.

Hospitals that stay up-to-date with technological trends and constantly train in new skills promote a higher standard of health delivery. The top North Carolina hospitals with these practices demonstrate preparedness for emergencies.

Ethics lead the way

When hospital systems lead with ethics, they put people at the forefront. 

Ethical standards in healthcare create a better connection and management system for patients, regardless of their situation. When hospitals in North Carolina focus on delivering quality healthcare to all patients, they’re providing ethical and invaluable service.

Next steps

Experienced nurses and recent graduates alike are searching for work within their particular nursing expertise. When choosing one of the above-listed hospitals in North Carolina, these institutions work toward elevating your skills and aspirations within nursing.

Finding a job without the proper strategies can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be! These simple guides will help to provide the tools you need to land your dream job as a nurse in North Carolina’s top hospitals.

Build your resume

To better stand out against other candidates, make sure you’re personalizing your resume for the hospital and specific job posting each time. Showcase your skills, knowledge, and accredited certifications and pair them with solid references to speak to your quality of work.

Join a nurses association

Networking is a vital asset to finding job opportunities and connecting with others in your field. Joining a nurses association can be beneficial for this.

If your state has a nurses union, look into the pros and cons of what joining can do for you.

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Attend industry educational conferences and workshops. 

Industry events are another great way to connect and learn relevant skills. With healthcare’s constant  advancements, staying knowledgeable is important.

Attending educational conferences, workshops, and other events will allow you to hone in on new technologies and techniques that will make you stand out against other candidates. These are helpful opportunities for getting advice in nursing in North Carolina.

Keep up with continuing education requirements

Since different states have different education requirements, it’s crucial to stay up to speed. Incredible Health’s free CEU courses will allow you to remain informed.

Sign up to access North Carolina’s license requirements as well.

Search for job openings

There are a variety of resources meant to aid in your job search for open positions at hospitals in North Carolina. Our platform is one of them that helps to streamline the process.

If you’re interested, create a profile now and hospitals will apply to you! 

Transfer your nursing license to North Carolina

If you’re coming from out of state and want to work in North Carolina, learning your options is essential. Coming from a compact state to another compact state has certain guidelines, which are much easier to transfer. Noncompact states, however, are another process. Read this guide to learn more.

Sources

• Health Care Ratings and Reports leapfroggroup.org Accessed July 5, 2022.
• “ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®.” nursingworld.org. Accessed July 5, 2022.
• Glassdoor. glassdoor.com Accessed July 5, 2022.
• Medicare. medicare.gov Accessed July 5, 2022.
• “U.S. News Best Hospitals.” health.usnews.com Accessed July 5, 2022.
• “World’s Best Hospitals 2021.” newsweek.com Accessed July 5, 2022.
• Award of Excellence elso.org Accessed July 5, 2022.
• Wakemed Company Rating forbes.com Accessed July 5, 2022

Career Resources / Job Searching / Best Hospitals Alabama

As a healthcare professional looking to work in Alabama, you should consider the best hospitals in the state. The best hospitals are often the best employers, providing a more fulfilling work experience. 

One of the hospitals discussed in this article is a Magnet hospital. These are hospitals that meet a certain standard of nursing and nurture nursing talent, as determined by the Magnet Recognition Program set up by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Given that the criteria for this recognition include job satisfaction for nurses as well as the hospital’s ability to retain nursing staff, Magnet hospitals can be a great place to further your nursing career. 

Best hospitals in Alabama

While Alabama has only one Magnet hospital, the state has many other quality hospitals, which can be great places to work.

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University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital

University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital is one of the best healthcare providers and the only magnet hospital in the state. It’s known for its clinical research and for offering some of the best medical programs in the country. It has a 4-star patient rating according to the federal government. Additionally, according to a U.S. News and World Report, UAB ranks 27th for cancer and 29th for cardiology in the country. It’s ranked first in Alabama. 

In 2021, Forbes ranked UAB as the best large employer in the country. In the same year, UAB also received the woman’s choice awards for its practices in obstetrics, orthopedics, heart care, stroke care, cancer care, and breast care.

Learn more about University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital:

• Administration: non-profit
• Location: Birmingham, Alabama 
• Hospital network: 4 facilities
• Number of employees: 16,361

Andalusia Health

Andalusia Health is a general medical and surgical facility, part of the 79 hospital network of ScionHealth.It has a 4-star overall rating according to the federal government. It’s considered high performing in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) by the U.S. News and World Report.

Learn more about Andalusia Health: 

• Location: Andalusia, Alabama 
• Hospital network: 79 hospitals
• Number of employees: 22,000 (in total)

Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham

Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham is an acute care hospital serving Birmingham and the surrounding communities. According to the U.S. News and World Report, it’s ranked third in Alabama and second in Birmingham. Additionally, it is considered high performing in six procedures. It has a 5-star overall rating according to the federal government website. 

Learn more about Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham: 

• Administration: non-profit 
• Location: Birmingham, Alabama 
• Hospital network: St. Vincent’s Health System (5 hospitals)
• Number of employees: 1,001-5,000 employees

Children’s of Alabama

Children’s of Alabama is one of the leading children’s hospitals in the nation and the state’s only level 1 pediatric trauma center. Children’s of Alabama was awarded the No. 1 position as the best children’s hospital in the Southeast in the U.S. News and World Report rankings. It is also nationally ranked in 10 children’s specialties. 

Learn more about Children’s of Alabama:

• Administration: non-profit 
• Location: Birmingham, Alabama 
• Number of employees: 5,000+

Huntsville Hospital

Huntsville Hospital is a general medical and surgical facility. It is ranked number two in all of Alabama by the U.S. News and World Report. It is high performing in 11 procedures. Additionally, it has a 3-star patient rating, according to the federal government website. 

Learn more about Huntsville Hospital: 

• Administration: non-profit 
• Location: Huntsville, Alabama 
• Hospital network: Huntsville Hospital System (9 facilities and 7 affiliate hospitals) 
• Number of employees: 16,000 employees total

What makes a best hospital in Alabama 

The best hospitals offer more than just competitive salaries. An array of qualitative factors influence the overall quality of a hospital. These include career advancement opportunities, work satisfaction, and even the technology the hospital uses. 

Benefits 

Apart from attractive salaries in Alabama, the best hospitals offer nurses additional employee benefits. These in-kind benefits can include childcare services, access to free wellness and mental health programs, and tuition reimbursements, which help you save money in the long term.

While your initial inclination might be to seek out nursing jobs with the highest wages, consider that an increasing number of nurses are now factoring in these other qualitative benefits that improve the quality of their employment. 

Growth opportunities

It is essential to consider your career trajectory while evaluating employment options. Your chosen organization should offer the potential for upward career mobility once you start and excel at your job. 

Multiple external factors such as better insurance and an aging population have increased the demand for nurse practitioners. Additionally, some sub-careers within nursing are particularly lucrative; for instance, nursing anesthetists made an average salary of $202,470 as of May 2021. As a registered nurse, you should consider such career advancement opportunities that would benefit you financially and professionally as you choose where you would like to work.  

Employee satisfaction

Given the nature of the profession, it is not uncommon for nurses to develop compassion fatigue and suffer from burnout related issues. The best hospitals tend to prioritize employee satisfaction, which can mitigate the impact of burnout or fatigue. By fostering a positive workplace environment, these hospitals help keep employees satisfied and make their jobs more fulfilling.

High patient satisfaction 

The best hospitals also often have high levels of patient satisfaction. After all, if the employees are satisfied and motivated, they create an environment conducive to healing for patients.

The converse is also true. Higher patient satisfaction increases employee satisfaction. According to a LinkedIn survey, 86% of healthcare professionals report that having pride in their employer matters to them, and the most significant determinant of pride for 64% of healthcare professionals is “having a positive impact on society.” 

Other factors that make a top hospital 

There are various additional factors that help a top hospital stand out, such as its safety record, quality of customer service, state of technology, and ethical standards. 

Exemplary safety record

Various studies have determined that while 4 out of 10 patients are harmed in primary and outpatient healthcare settings, up to 80% of this harm is preventable. The best hospitals invest in practices, resources, and employees to avoid this and improve safety for those entrusted to their care. 

Hospital policies that focus on customer service 

High quality customer service is a critical factor in determining patient satisfaction. Apart from the medical treatment itself, there are numerous other services that patients require, such as billing and insurance filing.

The best hospitals provide seamless and valuable customer service, making them highly sought after. 

Latest technology and training to improve healthcare

According to the Alabama Hospital Association, leading hospitals use technology to ensure safe, high-quality care for patients. Procuring advanced technology and training healthcare professionals in its use reflects a hospital’s investment in the continuous improvement of healthcare. 

Recent technological advancements have enabled telehealth services that allow patients to confer with their physicians virtually. This is critical for homebound patients and has been especially useful during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Ethics leading the way

An ethical approach is central to high-quality healthcare systems. Ethics are critical when dealing with difficult patients or marginalized groups to ensure that everyone who needs care receives unbiased and fair medical treatment. 

All top hospitals have a robust code of conduct. For example, UAB hospital prioritizes equal healthcare access for everyone, regardless of socioeconomic or biological factors. 

Next steps

Regardless of whether you’re an experienced nurse or a recent graduate with limited nursing expertise, working in any of the best Alabama hospitals listed above can further hone your skills and help you achieve your career aspirations. 

Since finding a job without the right resources at your disposal can be a daunting task, Incredible Health has compiled a comprehensive guide on landing your dream nursing job in a top Alabama hospital. Here are important steps to take to kickstart your nursing career in Alabama:

Build your resume

A resume is one of the most critical components of applying for a job. Most, if not all, of the best hospitals in Alabama will require a resume for the initial screening process. Standing out from the competition is crucial when it comes to competitive jobs and personalizing your resume will help you distinguish yourself. Follow these best practices to develop a strong nursing resume. 

Join a nurses association

Joining nurses associations such as professional nursing organizations and nursing unions can help you progress in your career. These associations provide references, job opportunities, and chances to network with other nurses and senior members of the industry. Make sure you consider the pros and cons of joining a union before making a decision. 

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Attend industry educational conferences and workshops

The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving. With new technologies and practices emerging, it is necessary to upskill frequently. Attending industry-specific educational conferences and workshops to learn new skills and techniques is a good place to start. 

Stay abreast of continuing education requirements

Different states have different requirements for continuing education. Incredible Health, has compiled resources and guides to familiarize you with these education requirements. 

Use the Alabama guide and enroll in Incredible Health’s Alabama nursing CEUs to ensure that you keep up with the education requirements for Alabama. 

Search for job openings

After completing the steps listed above, it’s finally time to search for jobs in Alabama. Instead of applying for jobs the traditional way, what if some of the best hospitals in Alabama contacted you? Flip the script: create a profile with Incredible Health and let the HR departments of top hospitals compete to hire you!

Transfer your nursing license to Alabama 

Do you want to work in Alabama but are currently out of state? Depending on which state you’re coming from, the process to transfer your nursing license might differ. 

For example, are you moving from a nursing compact state to Alabama, which is also part of the Nurse License Compact (NLC)? If so, you can easily transfer your license. Butwhat if you’re moving from a non-compact state? Follow our comprehensive guide to get all your questions answered. 

Sources

• ALABAMA HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION. alaha.org. Accessed June 30, 2022. 
• “ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®.” nursingworld.org. Accessed June 30, 2022.
• Medicare. medicare.gov Accessed June 30, 2022.
• “Pride a key factor in healthcare employee satisfaction: LinkedIn survey.” healthcaredive.com Accessed June 30, 2022.
• “THE ECONOMICS OF PATIENT SAFETY IN PRIMARY AND AMBULATORY CARE.” oecd.org Accessed June 30, 2022. 
• UAB MEDICINE. uabmedicine.org Accessed June 30, 2022. 
• “U.S. News Best Hospitals.” health.usnews.com Accessed June 30, 2022.

Career Resources / Job Searching / Best Hospitals Connecticut

Connecticut has been ranked among the top 10 healthiest states for several years, according to Connecticut by the Numbers. That’s a reason you should know its best hospitals to work for. 

We’ve listed in this article only Magnet hospitals, which is a designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Magnet hospitals meet high standards in many areas of healthcare service, including leadership, professional practice, and organizational effectiveness.

Best Hospitals in Connecticut

Magnet hospitals have consistently fostered better workplaces for nurses and patient outcomes. Our list is based on this criteria, as well as information from sources such as U.S. News & World Report and Medicare.

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Bristol Hospital

Bristol Hospital is the only Magnet hospital in Hartford County and has a four-star rating from the federal government.

The facility received a “B” grade from The Leapfrog Group for its hospital safety, and the Joint Commission Gold Seal of Approval for its high standards in healthcare quality the same year.

Learn more about Bristol Hospital:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Bristol, Connecticut
• Hospital network: 20 facilities (across the entire network)
• Employees: 1,700

Connecticut Children’s Medical Center

This hospital is ranked No. 2 in Connecticut and is nationally ranked in neonatology, pediatric gastroenterology, gastrointestinal surgery and pediatric urology by U.S. News & World Report. 

Connecticut Children’s is the only hospital in the state exclusively dedicated to pediatric patients. It was recognized with a Gold Level for its success using the Get With the Guidelines–Resuscitation program for neonatology and infant care from the American Heart Association.

Learn more about Connecticut Children’s:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Hartford, Connecticut 
• Hospital network: two facilities 
• Employees: 2,200

Greenwich Hospital*

Greenwich Hospital, a member of the Yale New Haven Health System, is rated high performing in several procedures or conditions, including colon cancer surgery and heart failure, by U.S. News & World Report. 

The hospital received the Women’s Choice Award for its high quality cancer care and patient experience and was recognized as a LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Top Performer from the Healthcare Equality Index.

The federal government gave it a five-star rating. 

Learn more about Greenwich Hospital:

• Administration: nonprofit
• Location: Greenwich, Connecticut 
• Hospital network: six facilities 
• Employees: 1,790 

Middlesex Hospital

Middlesex Hospital is rated high performing in kidney failure and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) by U.S. News & World Report.

The facility, a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, has an “A” grade from The Leapfrog Group and a four-star rating from the federal government.

Learn more about Middlesex Hospital:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Middletown, Connecticut 
• Hospital network: three facilities
• Employees: 3,100

Stamford Hospital

Stamford Hospital has a five-star rating from the federal government and is rated high performing in several procedures or conditions, including heart failure and kidney failure, by U.S. News & World Report. 

In 2021, the facility earned the Great Place to Work Certification. It also has an “A” grade from The Leapfrog Group for its hospital safety.

Learn more about Stamford Hospital:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Stamford, Connecticut 
• Hospital network: 40 facilities (across the entire network)
• Employees: 3700+

St. Vincent’s Medical Center

St. Vincent’s Medical Center has a three-star rating from the federal government. It’s rated high performing in heart failure, kidney failure and stroke by U.S. News & World Report. 

The hospital, part of Hartford HealthCare System, was recognized with a Gold Plus Level in the Get With the Guidelines program from the American Heart Association for its heart failure and stroke programs.

The Leapfrog Group gave it a “B” grade for its hospital safety. 

Learn more about St. Vincent’s Medical Center:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Bridgeport, Connecticut 
• Hospital network: two facilities
• Employees: 1,800+

Yale New Haven Hospital*

Yale New Haven Hospital, York Street campus, is ranked No. 1 in Connecticut and is nationally ranked in several adult specialties, such as cancer, geriatrics and gynecology, by U.S. News & World Report. 

The hospital is a Level I Trauma Center for adult and pediatric patients and it was considered one of the World’s Best Hospitals by Newsweek in 2022. 

In 2020, the facility was also designated one of the Best Workplaces for Commuters. The federal government gave it a four-star rating.

Learn more about Yale New Haven Hospital:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: New Haven, Connecticut
• Hospital network: six facilities 
• Employees: 12,991

*Incredible Health helps these hospitals find permanent nurses. Sign up to get matched with nursing jobs!

What makes a best hospital in Connecticut

Below you’ll find common features that make high-performing hospitals ideal places for nurses.

Benefits

A competitive salary is not the only perk that makes working in a hospital worth it. It’s recommended to check if the employer invests in employee benefits, such as medical plans, tuition assistance, exclusive discounts and paid time off.

Growth opportunity

Besides compensation, career growth should be another priority in your professional life. You may start as a registered nurse (RN) but you could specialize as a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA). With an annual mean wage of $276,540, Connecticut ranks second among the states with the highest-paying CRNA salaries, as stated in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

Another good option is to follow the nurse practitioner path.

Employee satisfaction

A BioMed Research International study suggests that high job satisfaction leads to better employee performance, which results in retention of professionals and an increase in patient satisfaction. Additionally, nurses who are satisfied are less likely to experience job fatigue and burnout.

High patient satisfaction

A healthy workplace is also very important to provide better service to patients. This allows the hospital to be recognized for its performance and to gain loyal customers as a result.

Other factors that make a top hospital

Several factors make a hospital stand out from the rest, as you just read. They can also go beyond in terms of medical safety, customer service, technology and ethics.

Safety record is critical

The quality of service in healthcare is highly dependent on hospital safety. Most infection problems can be prevented if employers record procedures and create standards that all employees can follow.

Hospital policies focus on customer services 

The customer service policies of a hospital, including regular staff training that keeps employees on the same page for best practices, make Connecticut’s best hospitals stand out.

Latest technology and training improve healthcare

Using technology in healthcare can be helpful for a number of reasons, including making healthcare decisions and analyzing patient data.

Ethics lead the way

In complex cases, such as when a patient refuses treatment because of cultural beliefs, ethics can be a valuable asset that guides decisions and actions taken by healthcare professionals.

Next steps

Whether you’re an experienced nurse or a recent graduate with the right nursing skills, working at one of the above-listed Connecticut hospitals can enhance your skills and advance your career goals. 

Job hunting without the right strategy can be a frustrating task. Here are tips on how to find your dream job as a nurse at one of Connecticut’s best hospitals.

Build your resume

There is an ideal method to present your job experience, skills and career goals to employers. The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses has established guidelines and we compiled them in our nursing resume guide.

Join a nurses association

Joining a nursing organization may be very helpful for your career in general. You can find suggestions of nursing organizations on our blog, if you’re interested in networking and mentoring, and an analysis of participating in nursing unions.

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Attend industry educational conferences and workshops

Attending nursing conferences is a great way to improve your professional development, have fun with colleagues and enrich your resume.

If you need some tips about conferences, or any nursing-related topic, check out our advice about working in Connecticut.

Keep up with continuing education requirements

Another way to keep learning is by studying on your own with online courses. Also, if you are an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), you may need to take Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to meet Connecticut’s education requirements.

Incredible health has free Connecticut CEU courses. Sign up and start learning!

Search for job openings

You should create an account on Incredible Health if you’re looking to get hired by one of the best hospitals in the country. 

Our nursing jobs marketplace uses exclusive technology to match the right candidate with the right position at the right hospital.

Transfer your nursing license to Connecticut

Connecticut is a noncompact state. This means that, if you come from a compact state, your multistate license will change to a single-state license. But transferring a nursing license is not as difficult as it seems. 

We’ve prepared a guide to assist you.

Sources

• “ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®.” nursingworld.org. Accessed July 9, 2022.
• “CT is Nation’s 4th Healthiest State, Analysis Shows” ctbythenumbers.news Accessed July 9, 2022.
• “Job Satisfaction and Associated Factors among Health Professionals Working at Public and Private Hospitals in Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Accessed July 9, 2022.
• Medicare. medicare.gov. Accessed July 9, 2022.
• “Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics” bls.gov. Accessed July 9, 2022.
• “U.S. News Best Hospitals.” health.usnews.com. Accessed July 9, 2022.
• “World’s Best Hospitals 2022.” newsweek.com. Accessed July 9, 2022.

Career Resources / Job Searching / Best Hospitals Oregon

Known for its culture and natural wonders, Oregon is well-suited for those looking for a change of scenery. This state is especially notable for its healthcare institutions.

Every hospital on this list is a Magnet hospital, as determined by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) criteria. A Magnet hospital is an honorable designation, with less than 600 hospitals across the country having been named with this quality of nursing and high patient satisfaction.

Here are some of Oregon’s top hospitals whose focus is on delivering the utmost care for patients and nurses. 

Oregon’s top hospitals

• Oregon Health & Science University Hospital
• Providence Portland Medical Center
• Providence St. Vincent Medical Center
• Salem Hospital
• VA Portland Health Care System

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Best hospitals in Oregon 

The following list of Magnet-status hospitals has been compiled using websites such as the ANCC, U.S. News & World Report, and Medicare. Feedback from other trusted employment websites, like Glassdoor and LinkedIn, have also been used to rate their rankings.

Oregon Health & Science University Hospital

Regionally ranked number 1 in Oregon, Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) Hospital has also ranked number 1 in Portland. Its Children’s division has ranked number 1 in Oregon  and number 6 in the Pacific region . It is nationally ranked in 6 adult specialties and 7 pediatric specialties and rated as high-performing in 3 adult specialties and 16 procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report. The federal government has given this institution 4 out of 5 stars. This hospital is one of 11 academic medical centers to be recognized for demonstrating excellence in delivering high-quality care based on the annual Vizient Quality and Accountability Ranking.

Learn more about OHSUHospital:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Portland, OR
• Hospital network: 4 locations
• Nurses: 2,400

Providence Portland Medical Center

Regionally ranked number 5 in Oregon and number 3 in Portland, Providence Portland Medical Center is also rated as high-performing in 3 adult specialties and 11 procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report. The federal government has awarded it the honor of 5 out of 5 stars. This institution has also been granted the America’s 100 Best Hospitals Award by Healthgrades from 2019 through 2021.

Learn more about Providence Portland Medical Center:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Portland, OR
• Hospital network: 1 location
• Employees: 3,160

Providence St. Vincent Medical Center

Providence St. Vincent Medical Center Is regionally ranked number 2 in Oregon and number 2 in Portland, and is rated high-performing in 4 adult specialties and 16 procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report. It has been awarded 4 out of 5 stars by the federal government. This hospital has also been named one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for two consecutive years by Healthgrades.

Learn more about Providence St. Vincent Medical Center:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Portland, OR
• Hospital network: 1 location
• Employees: 3,500

Salem Hospital

Salem Hospital is regionally ranked number 6 in Oregon and is rated high-performing in 1 adult specialty and 9 procedures and conditions by the U.S. News & World Report. The federal government has given it 3 out of 5 stars. This institution has been honored with the Statesman Journal’s Best of the Mid-Valley People’s Choice Awards for Best Hospital, Local Surgery Center, and Most Innovative Workplace.

Learn more about Salem Hospital:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Salem, OR
• Hospital network: 2 locations
• Employees: 5,200

VA Portland Health Care System

The VA Portland Health Care System has received the Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert W. Carey Performance Excellence Award and Trophy Award. It’s been awarded the California Award for Performance Excellence for two years. This hospital has been placed on the Healthcare Equality Index for eight consecutive years.

Learn more about VA Portland Health Care System:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Portland, OR
• Hospital network: 12 locations
  

What makes a best hospital in Oregon

Though their Magnet-status and accreditations already make them impressive places for employment, these hospitals in Oregon also offer valuable benefits, growth opportunities, and satisfaction to both their staff and patients.

Benefits

When seeking out new employment, nurses often question beyond the salary and look for other favorable benefits. These can include vacation time, sick leave, discounts, financial assistance for homebuyers, tuition assistance, wellness programs, and more.

Growth opportunity

One exciting aspect of nursing is the possibility for advancement and growth. While many begin their careers as an RN, the chance to pursue further education to become a nurse anesthetist (CRNA) or nurse practitioner is appealing due to a higher salary and additional responsibilities.

Employee satisfaction

Positive working environments tend to have higher employee satisfaction. This is important for nurses looking for new opportunities.

Employers that promote employee satisfaction create environments where, as a nurse, you are less likely to experience job fatigue or burnout. 

High patient satisfaction 

Patient satisfaction is often a reflection of employee satisfaction in hospitals. When there’s a great work environment and happy employees, patient satisfaction follows.

Other factors that make a top hospital 

There are other factors that make a hospital enticing for nurses, such as safety procedures, customer-centric practices, technological training, and ethics.

Safety record is critical

Safety records are vital for demonstrating a hospital’s commitment to safety standards and protocol. When health facilities require their nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals to carry out safety procedures, potential problems are more easily prevented.

Hospitals that focus on cleanliness are less likely to transmit further infection, and they’re setting a quality standard in the industry. These safety records demonstrate care and excellence, which are essential in hospital settings.

Hospital policies focus on customer services 

When hospitals value customer service, they are displaying their positive purpose. Hospitals that are more likely to promote patient satisfaction and rights are more sought after by potential employees.

Latest technology and training improve healthcare

Implementing and using new technologies in healthcare can be vital for staff and patients alike. Hospitals that train on new practices and software promote a higher standard for improved diagnoses and treatments.

When staff is continuously trained on new technology, there’s an improvement in emergency situations and patient care. The top hospitals in Oregon stay up-to-date on technological advancements and see them put into use. 

Ethics lead the way

Hospitals that rely on ethical practices to lead the way are more focused on positive outcomes for patients. When healthcare providers focus on guiding their profession through ethics, regardless of patient backgrounds, they create more valuable connections and management while delivering quality health services.

Next steps

As an experienced nurse or recent graduate, finding the right job at a top hospital in Oregon is meant to elevate both your skills and aspirations in your career.

However, it’s key to have the right strategies in place for the job search. Here are some tips and guides on how to land your dream job at one of Oregon’s top hospitals.

Build your resume

Personalizing your resume for the specific hospital and job you want will help to better set you apart from other candidates. Showcase your skills, knowledge, and accreditations and have solid references who can speak to your quality of work. These will ensure you stand out among the applicants.

Join a nurses association

Connecting and networking with other nurses can be quite simple with nurses associations. Check to see if your state has a nurses union that will allow you to gain access to connections and job opportunities. Consider the pros and cons of joining an association beforehand.

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Attend industry educational conferences and workshops. 

With the rapid advancement of the healthcare system, it’s important to continue learning relevant skills, technologies, and techniques. These will help you stand out to potential employers. 

Attending educational conferences and workshops in healthcare are beneficial for boosting your credentials, while also seeking out advice from other industry professionals.

Keep up with continuing education requirements

Not every state has the same education requirements, so it’s important to stay informed on these specifications. Incredible Health offers free CEU courses for many states, including Oregon, so sign up for a profile to access them.

Search for job openings

There are a variety of resources meant to guide nurses like you to job openings at the hospitals listed above or elsewhere in Oregon. This includes our platform.

Are you interested in learning more? Create your profile to have hospitals apply to you!

Transfer your nursing license to Oregon

If you’re coming from out of state to work in Oregon, you need to know your options. For example, arriving from a compact state to work in another compact state is a much easier process to transfer your license.

For noncompact states, however, there are additional requirements. Read our guide to find out more.

Sources

• “ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®.” nursingworld.org. Accessed July 11, 2022.
• Glassdoor. glassdoor.com Accessed July 11, 2022.
• Medicare. medicare.gov Accessed July 11, 2022.
• Vizient Quality and Accountability Ranking newsroom.vizientinc.com Accessed July 11, 2022.
• Providence Ministries’ Recognition providence.org July 11, 2022.
• Salem Hospital Awards salemhealth.org July 11, 2022.
• VA Portland Health Care System Awards and Achievement va.gov Accessed July 11, 2022.

Career Resources / Job Searching / Best Hospitals Maryland

Maryland is a state with many opportunities for nurses. For instance, you could work at Johns Hopkins Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in the world. 

In this article, we’ve named six Magnet hospitals — a designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). An organization with this designation has been evaluated as the gold standard in many aspects, such as nursing leadership and policies that encourage nurses to voice their concerns.

Maryland’s Top Hospital

• Frederick Health Hospital
• Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center
• MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center
• Mercy Medical Center
• The Johns Hopkins Hospital
• University of Maryland Medical Center

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Best Hospitals in Maryland

We’ve listed the top hospitals with Magnet status located in Maryland. We’ve also based our research on reliable sources such as Medicare and U.S. News & World Report. 

Frederick Health Hospital*

Frederick Health, also known as Frederick Regional Hospital, is rated high performing in heart failure, diabetes, stroke and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) by U.S. News & World Report.

In 2022, the hospital was named one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals from Healthgrades.

The organization also has a three-star rating from the federal government.

Learn more about Frederick Health:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Frederick, Maryland
• Hospital network: five facilities
• Employees: 3,300 (across the entire network)

Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center

Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center is ranked No. 6 in Maryland and is rated high performing in several procedures or conditions, including colon cancer surgery, heart failure and maternity care, by U.S. News & World Report.

The hospital received the Gold Plus Get With The Guidelines – Stroke quality achievement award from the American Heart Association in 2022 and the American Association for Respiratory Care Apex Recognition Award in 2021. It also has a four-star rating from the federal government. 

Learn more about Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Annapolis, Maryland
• Hospital network: three facilities
• Employees: 5,000+ (across the entire network)

MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center*

This Magnet hospital is one of the largest employers in Baltimore County and is rated high performing in several procedures or conditions, such as lung cancer surgery, heart failure, and diabetes, by U.S. News & World Report.

The facility has received The Gold Seal of Approval from The Joint Commission for its healthcare quality. It was the first hospital in the Baltimore area to be recognized by the National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program from the Cribs for Kids for educating parents on safe sleep practices for infants and also received a “B” grade from The Leapfrog Group for hospital safety.

The federal government gave it a two-star rating.

Learn more about MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center:

• Administration: nonprofit
• Location: Baltimore, Maryland
• Hospital network: 10 facilities 
• Employees: 3,500+

Mercy Medical Center

Mercy Medical Center, or The Bunting Center, is rated high performing in colon cancer surgery, back surgery, hip replacement and knee replacement by U.S. News & World Report.

The facility, which is the main hospital of Mercy’s Downtown Baltimore campus, was named one of America’s Best Midsize Employers by Forbes in 2022 and has received the gold-level Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) in 2021.

The Leapfrog Group gave it an “A” grade for its hospital safety and the federal government gave it a five-star rating.

Learn more about Mercy Medical Center:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Baltimore, Maryland
• Hospital network: seven facilities

The Johns Hopkins Hospital*

The teaching hospital of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine is ranked No. 1 in Maryland and No. 4 on the Best Hospitals Honor Roll by U.S. News & World Report. 

The Magnet hospital also ranked No. 6 among the World’s Best Hospitals by Newsweek in 2022 and has received an “A” grade from The Leapfrog Group for hospital safety in 2021.

Johns Hopkins Hospital, one of Maryland’s largest private employers, is accredited by The Joint Commission.

The institution has been designated as a Level 9 by The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) for its frequent use of technologies in innovative ways, which encourages adoption across the entire organization. The federal government gave it a four-star rating.

Learn more about The Johns Hopkins Hospital:

• Administration: nonprofit 
• Location: Baltimore, Maryland
• Hospital network: six facilities 
• Employees: 40,000+ 
• Nurse-to-patient ratio: 1:4 – 1:5

University of Maryland Medical Center

The University of Maryland Medical Center is ranked No. 2 in Maryland and is rated high performing in cancer by U.S. News & World Report. 

The teaching hospital, considered the highest-volume trauma center in the country, received the Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award and achieved the Advanced Certification for Comprehensive Stroke Center from the American Heart Association.

The Leapfrog Group gave it a “B” grade for hospital safety and the federal government gave it a two-star rating.

Learn more about The University of Maryland Medical Center:

• Administration: nonprofit
• Location: Baltimore, Maryland
• Hospital network: two facilities
• Employees: 6,500 

*Incredible Health helps these hospitals find permanent nurses. Sign up to get matched with nursing jobs!

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What makes a best hospital in Maryland

Knowing about the best hospitals to work for in Maryland might lead you to wonder what features make them stand out. Here are some of them:

Benefits

Productivity and a sense of belonging in the workplace don’t only come from salary. It’s the result of a whole employee benefits program, which includes wellness initiatives, employee assistance and financial services, for instance. 

Growth opportunity

Career growth is important because it opens up new challenges and this helps you strengthen your skills. When you start as a registered nurse (RN), having a master’s degree through a certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNA) program is an option of specialization. Alternatively, to become a nurse practitioner (NP), you must have the equivalent degree and pass the NP board certification exam.

Employee satisfaction

While in many companies employee productivity and job satisfaction are common challenges, top hospitals that invest in benefits and staff safety take it all in stride. And not only that, they also prevent nurses from suffering from work fatigue or burnout.

High patient satisfaction

Improving communication, reducing patient wait time and listening to feedback are examples of how the best hospitals in Maryland increase patient satisfaction. 

Other factors that make a top hospital

Besides benefits, growth opportunities and patient experience, here are a few additional factors that help a hospital become a dream workplace for nurses.

Safety record is critical

Top hospitals are easily identified by their infection control initiatives and high standards on the use of medical resources.

Hospital policies focus on customer services 

High-performing hospitals provide great customer service through privacy compliance checklists and training for complex situations, among other initiatives.

Latest technology and training improve healthcare

According to KPMG, the use of technology in healthcare makes a nurse’s daily routine easier and provides accurate patient data, which leads to improved interventions. Your career will progress if you work for an employer with this mindset.

Ethics lead the way

Magnet and high-performing hospitals also place a high priority on ethics, which assist employees in recognizing healthcare dilemmas and making moral and legal decisions.

Next steps

Working in one of the above-mentioned Maryland hospitals may be an amazing part of your career, whether you are an experienced nurse or a recent RN. 

If you don’t know what to do to achieve this, continue reading to learn how to land your ideal position as a nurse in one of Maryland’s top medical facilities.

Build your resume

Candidates’ skills and experience are important to employers. Check our nursing resume guide, based on AACN guidelines, to read more tips.

Join a nurses association

You can also boost your resume with knowledge and skills by joining a nursing organization. On the other hand, if you’re more inclined to advocate for specific interests, such as better wages, joining a nursing union may be the right choice.

Attend industry educational conferences and workshops

Besides nursing organizations, attending nursing conferences is another way to keep up to date on healthcare. You can also read different points of view on subjects that may interest you in our Maryland nurse advice section.

Keep up with continuing education requirements

Every great healthcare professional is also a lifelong learner. While Maryland doesn’t require  Continuing Education Units (CEUs), employers have their own requirements.

Take our free courses to make yourself stand out.  

Search for job openings

It’s 2022 and seeking a job can be easier than ever. Sign up on Incredible Health, get hired, and never be left hanging by a recruiter again.

Transfer your nursing license to Maryland

Maryland was one of the first states to pass the Nurse Licensure Compact legislation. There are procedures to follow if you’re not from the Free State.  Read this guide and know everything you need to transfer your nursing license.

Sources

• “ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®.” nursingworld.org. Accessed July 6, 2022.
• “Healthcare technology transformation trends in the United States” home.kpmg. Accessed July 6, 2022.
• Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade. leapfroggroup.org Accessed July 6, 2022.
• Medicare. medicare.gov. Accessed July 6, 2022.
• “U.S. News Best Hospitals.” health.usnews.com. Accessed July 6, 2022.