PHOENIX (March 27, 2026) – Banner Estrella Medical Center has earned its third consecutive Magnet® designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the Commission on Magnet Recognition, reinforcing its position among an elite group of hospitals nationwide recognized for exceptional nursing quality, patient outcomes and organizational leadership.
The Magnet designation, received on Thursday, is the highest national honor for professional nursing practice, awarded to health care organizations that demonstrate outstanding clinical outcomes, collaborative cultures, evidence‑based care, and superior patient experiences. Fewer than 10% of hospitals in the United States hold Magnet status and just 15% of those have earned redesignation three consecutive times, placing Banner among a select tier of organizations demonstrating sustained excellence over time.
“This achievement is a powerful reflection of the commitment, compassion, and professionalism our nurses bring to every patient, every day,” said Wendi Sears, RN, chief nursing officer at Banner Estrella. “Magnet recognition represents the gold standard for nursing, and this redesignation confirms that our teams consistently deliver the highest-quality and safest care.”
The rigorous Magnet redesignation process evaluates nursing leadership, clinical outcomes, interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, and culture of safety. During the most recent appraisal, Banner Estrella demonstrated exceptional performance across multiple outcome measures, including hospital-acquired infection prevention, workplace safety, and patient experience excellence.
Sears emphasized that Magnet recognition is a shared accomplishment across the facility.
“This designation reflects not only the expertise of our bedside nurses, but the collective commitment of every team member who supports a culture where nurses can thrive, innovate, and lead,” she said. “We are incredibly proud to continue serving our community at this distinguished level.”
Magnet redesignation remains the industry benchmark for health care organizations that prioritize nursing excellence, superior patient outcomes, and an unwavering dedication to safety and quality — values that continue to define care at Banner Health. Other Banner Health facilities have also earned a Magnet designation, including Banner Gateway Medical Center in Gilbert, Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, and Banner – University Medical Center Tucson.
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