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The Minnesota Hospital Association (MHA) recognized Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center with two awards during its annual meeting Sept. 17 in Brainerd. Avera Marshall received the Innovation in Patient Care Award for its OB Navigation program, and Aaron Schroeder, RN, cardiac rehab supervisor, received the Excellence in Caregiving Award.
MHA's Innovation in Patient Care Award honors hospitals that have developed or implemented creative new methods and models for the delivery of patient care.
Avera Marshall was recognized for its OB Navigation program, which supports mothers and families throughout pregnancy, delivery and postpartum care. Led by Kari Horvath, OB navigator, the program connects patients with education, resources and coordinated clinical and community support.
"OB navigation was developed out of feedback from community focus groups and demonstrates how listening to patients and acting on their needs can drive meaningful improvement," said Debbie Streier, Avera Marshall president and CEO. "The program aligns with Avera's mission of making a positive impact in our communities by promoting safer pregnancies, healthier newborns, improved patient satisfaction and more efficient use of health care resources."
Avera Marshall also received individual recognition for the compassionate, patient-centered care provided through its cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation services.
Schroeder received MHA's Excellence in Caregiving Award. This award honors an individual or team that provides outstanding patient care and exemplifies commitment to quality.
Schroeder was recognized for supporting patients in cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation with compassionate coaching, education and encouragement. His patient-centered approach has contributed to an average graduation rate of 93.9% over the past three years and patient satisfaction scores in the 99th percentile.
"It's not always easy to get patients to complete their full cardiac or pulmonary rehab program, but Aaron has created a safe, encouraging environment where patients feel supported and motivated in their recovery. He builds genuine connections with participants, helping them regain confidence and motivating them to achieve goals they may not have thought possible," Streier said.
Together, these awards highlight Avera Marshall's ongoing commitment to improving care close to home and supporting the health of the communities it serves.
The Avera Marshall honors were among 44 awards presented to individuals and teams for their contributions to hospitals, patients and communities across Minnesota.
"These award recipients represent the best of health care in Minnesota," said MHA President and CEO Dr. Rahul Koranne. "Excellent health care depends on people serving in many different roles, and these honorees demonstrate the impact individuals and teams can have at the bedside, in their communities and at the state Capitol. We are proud to recognize their remarkable contributions to patients and hospitals statewide."