Good Samaritan University Hospital Recognized for Patient Care Excellence

During its February 2026 triennial review by The Joint Commission, Good Samaritan University Hospital was recognized for several best practices that enhance patient safety, strengthen the patient and family experience and improve quality of care.

These programs reflect the hospital’s ongoing commitment to the communities we serve across Long Island.

Safer Emergency Arrivals

EMS Handoff & ED/EMS RN Liaison

When patients arrive by ambulance, every second — and every detail — matters. Surveyors highlighted Good Samaritan’s structured EMS handoff process, supported by a dedicated nurse liaison who helps coordinate communication between EMS teams and Emergency Department staff.

What this means for our community:

• Faster, more organized emergency care
• Better communication during critical moments
• Improved readiness when patients arrive
• Stronger partnerships with local EMS providers

This process helps ensure patients receive seamless care from the moment they reach our doors.

Pharmacists at the Bedside in the Emergency Department

Good Samaritan’s embedded Emergency Department pharmacist program was recognized for improving medication safety in real time.

By having pharmacists directly involved in emergency care teams, the hospital can:

• Double-check medications quickly
• Support physicians and nurses during emergencies
• Reduce medication errors
• Improve treatment decisions at the bedside

For patients and families, this adds another important layer of safety.

Addressing Food Insecurity

Health is influenced by more than medical care alone. Good Samaritan’s Food Insecurity Program was recognized for helping identify patients who may be struggling to access nutritious food and connecting them with community resources through the Island Harvest Nutritional Pathways Program in Bay Shore.

Community impact:

• Routine screening for food needs
• Direct referrals to local support services
• Collaboration with community partners
• Support that continues after discharge

This initiative reflects the hospital’s commitment to caring for the whole person, not just the medical condition.

Strengthening Safety in the Surgical ICU

In the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU), surveyors recognized a specialized handoff process that ensures precise communication when patients are receiving critical medications.

This standardized approach helps:

• Reduce the risk of medication errors
• Improve continuity between care teams
• Enhance safety during shift changes
• Support high-quality care for critically ill patients

Helping Families Manage Pediatric Medications

Good Samaritan’s Pediatric Medication Education Tree was praised as an innovative tool that helps parents and caregivers better understand their child’s medications, ensuring they feel prepared and supported after discharge.

Why it matters:

• Clear, visual education for families
• Consistent teaching by pediatric nurses
• Support for safe medication use at home
• Improved confidence for caregivers

Preventing Infections in the CTICU

The Cardiothoracic ICU team was recognized for its comprehensive program to prevent central line and urinary catheter infections.

Through close teamwork among nurses, physicians, infection prevention specialists and quality teams, the program focuses on:

• Careful device management
• Daily safety reviews
• Evidence-based prevention practices
• Continuous monitoring and feedback

The result is safer care for some of the hospital’s most vulnerable patients.

Radiation Staff Checks in Imaging Services

The Imaging Services Department was recognized for their unique safe practice regarding the use of dosimetry badges, a personal monitoring device worn by staff to measure and document exposure to radiation such as X-rays.

Why it matters:

• Protects staff health and safety
• Builds staff confidence and peace of mind
• Strengthens regulatory compliance
• Contributes to safer care environments

A Commitment to Our Community

These recognitions highlight the dedication of Good Samaritan University Hospital’s care teams and their focus on delivering safe, compassionate and high-quality care close to home.

Good Samaritan University Hospital remains committed to continuous improvement and to serving our community with excellence today and into the future.