Grady recognized for high performance, emergency nursing

Grady Health System has been named a High Performing hospital in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 Best Hospitals rankings. Grady earned top marks for care in heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), kidney failure, leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma, and stroke.

“This recognition reflects the unwavering dedication of our physicians, nurses and staff who work every day to deliver exceptional, evidence-based care to our patients. It affirms our commitment to clinical excellence and our mission to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve,” said John Haupert, president and CEO, Grady Health System.

U.S. News evaluated more than 4,000 hospitals nationwide across 15 adult specialties and 22 procedures and conditions. Only one-third achieved High Performing status, based on factors like survival rates, patient experience and quality of nursing care.

That nursing excellence helped Grady’s Emergency Department earn the 2025 Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) Lantern Award, which recognizes emergency departments that demonstrate excellence in improving patient care and supporting staff well-being.

“This award reflects the dedication, collaboration and innovation our emergency department brings to every shift,” said Ashley Gresham, vice president of Grady Emergency Services. “It highlights our commitment to creating a supportive environment where both patients and staff feel valued and empowered.”

Key initiatives that led to Grady’s recognition included the introduction of the Traffic Control Nurse role, which has streamlined patient flow and improved coordination, and the STAT IR program, which speeds up access to specialized imaging and treatment for trauma patients experiencing severe bleeding, helping save lives through faster, coordinated care.

Congratulations to Team Grady!