Naperville's Edward Hospital touts top ranking

Edward Hospital in Naperville is touting its rank as the best overall facility in the region according to a survey of area residents.

The hospital recently released the findings of the 2009 Quality/Image survey by the National Research Corporation.

"It's one tool for us to help our employees and physicians understand where we stand in the marketplace," said Brian Davis, vice president of marketing for Edward. "We take great pride in it and we want people to think of us first."

The survey collected opinions from more than 200,000 households in Edward Hospital's service area that includes at least 18 communities, including Naperville, Aurora, Bolingbrook, Downers Grove, Joliet, Wheaton and Plainfield.

Davis estimates there are at least 10 hospitals serving the region and said he is proud Edward is holding its own.

"There is so much more choice in health care than there has ever been," he said. "People are making a conscious decision of who their doctor is sometimes based on which hospital their doctor is connected to."

Edward topped others in the region by a nearly three-to-one margin in terms of both best overall quality and preferred hospital for health needs. It also came out on top for best doctors and nurses, latest technology and equipment, best accommodations, most personalized care and highest patient safety.

Residents ranked Edward as the preferred hospital in each key service area as well, including heart care, cancer treatment and hospital inpatient stay.

Davis attributes the high marks to the doctors, nurses and staff.

"We continue to attract the finest physicians anywhere," he said. "Physicians, many of whom have practiced in academic medical centers who prefer a more nimble environment. ... People can (also) read about the clinical excellence of our nursing staff and the overall emphasis we put on quality and performance."

Edward Hospital posts the results of various community and patient surveys at www.edward.org/howweperform.