Zero Harm awards presented to record 59 hospitals

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A record 59 hospitals won a collective 329 Certified Zero Harm awards, presented by the S.C. Hospital Association and the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control, in 2020.

The awards represent 165,997 central line infection-free days and 21,552 surgical procedures with no medically caused harm, even as the COVID-19 pandemic increased stress on staff and equipment, according to a news release from the S.C. Hospital Association.

“The Zero Harm program is a prime example of a successful partnership between the public and private sector that improves the quality of life in South Carolina,” Karen Reynolds, SCHA director of innovation and acceleration, said in the release. “As medical errors continue to be a major concern across the country, South Carolina has developed a blueprint for reducing avoidable harm in our healthcare facilities that other states can follow.”

Data for the Zero Harm program, which began in 2014, is verified by DHEC.

“Zero patient harm is possible only if physicians, clinical and support staff members work together to support a culture of high reliability,” Reynolds said. “Zero Harm Award winners are an inspiration to all hospitals across the state striving to provide measurably safe care for every patient.”