Heywood, Athol hospitals receive high scores in quality of care survey

Two local hospitals are being recognized for their commitment to quality.

Heywood Hospital in Gardner and Athol Hospital in Athol both received high marks in the most recent annual Hospital Quality Star Ratings survey, which is compiled by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Both facilities are members of the Heywood Medical Group .

The survey evaluates 46 hospital quality measures, divided into five categories: safety of care, mortality, patient experience, readmission rates, and timely and effective care.

Heywood Hospital received a four-star rating, out of a possible five; an improvement from its previous three-star rating in 2023.

The improvement comes as the health system navigates the complexities of Chapter 11 reorganization .

More: Longtime Heywood Hospital employee honored for his service: What the hospital did

Athol Hospital also received a four-star rating, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to safe patient care. The hospital also recently celebrated receiving the IPRO's 2024 Hospital Quality Improvement award for its ongoing commitment to patient safety and performance, having been recognized for "most improved performance."

"I am humbled and honored to lead a team of such talented and dedicated individuals who demonstrate their unwavering commitment and genuine care for our patients each and every day," said Rozanna Penney, president and CEO of Heywood Healthcare.

This article originally appeared on Gardner News: Heywood, Athol hospitals receive high scores in quality of care survey