Saint Joseph Health and Continuing Care Hospital were recognized on March 25 at the 2026 Kentucky Hospital Association Quality Awards, according to an April 20 announcement.
The recognition highlights efforts by both organizations to improve patient care and safety through targeted initiatives. The awards are intended to honor hospital leadership and ingenuity in maintaining quality, reliability, and dedication to patient-centered care.
Saint Joseph Health received the award in the Hospital System category for its Operational Excellence Program. This program addresses inefficiencies, reduces unnecessary expenses, and improves quality and patient safety by combining front-line engagement, executive leadership, and community feedback for sustainable improvement. “Saint Joseph Health is honored to receive this recognition from the Kentucky Hospital Association,” said Matt Grimshaw, MBA, President of Saint Joseph Health. “We are incredibly grateful for the caregivers across the ministry who have helped to identify and implement changes to reduce waste, improve systems and improve the quality of our care. These changes help us become more efficient and continue our mission of providing high-quality, patient-centered care.”
Continuing Care Hospital was recognized in the Long-Term Acute Care Hospital category for its three-pronged strategy aimed at reducing central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI). The initiative included daily necessity reviews to reduce device days, enhanced CHG bathing protocols, and introducing a peripheral blood culture diversion device. “This recognition highlights the dedication of our caregivers in ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients,” said Bob Desotelle, President of Continuing Care Hospital. “We are proud to be making a meaningful impact on patient care and safety and are incredibly honored to receive our thirteenth Quality Award from the Kentucky Hospital Association.”
According to its official website, Chi Memorial Hospital Georgia features hospitals, care sites, as well as freestanding outpatient imaging centers; it also received recognition for commitment to quality from leading organizations. The hospital is part of CommonSpirit Health with three hospitals among its network of 65 care sites. Its mission focuses on enhancing lives through superior care, led by president Janelle Reilly.
The KHA Quality Awards aim each year to raise awareness about organizational commitment required for consistently delivering exceptional health services while honoring successful initiatives that advance overall healthcare standards.