Southern New Hampshire Medical Center Recognized as State’s Only Five-Time Magnet® Designated Hospital

Southern New Hampshire Health, a non-profit health system, announced its Medical Center has become the only hospital in the state to earn a fifth Magnet® designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the highest national recognition for excellence in nursing practice.  

Magnet designation recognizes excellence and reflects an organization’s commitment to patient outcomes, professional nursing practice, and continuous improvement.  

Why a Magnet designation makes Southern NH Medical Center stand out:  

• Only N.H. Hospital with a five-time Magnet designation 

• Fewer than 10% of hospitals in the U.S. achieve Magnet recognition, and even fewer maintain it over multiple cycles  

• Only 2% of hospitals in the U.S. have received a five-time designation  

• First designated as a Magnet hospital in 2006 and again in 2011, 2016, 2021, and now 2026  

“Nursing excellence is defined by purpose, professionalism, and accountability,” said Susan Santana, Chief Nursing Officer and SVP of Patient Care Services, Southern New Hampshire Health System. “As a not-for-profit healthcare system, earning Magnet designation for the fifth time reflects our team’s dedication and sustained commitment to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care to the patients and communities we serve.” 

A Magnet designation means patients, families, and the community receive care from an organization committed to rigorous standards. It highlights strong teamwork and compassionate, coordinated care. The designation also means nurses work in an environment at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center where they can excel, grow professionally, have a voice in the system, and can feel proud of their career. Being a Magnet hospital means employees participate in decision-making across the organization and are empowered to make a positive impact on the care environment and patient experience. 

The announcement was attended by dozens of nurses, medical staff and other Southern NH Health employees. During the presentation, the Commission on Magnet pointed out what separates Southern NH Medical Center from others throughout the country, saying it’s a clear testament to nursing excellence and, “The culture at SNHMC remains highly positive, collaborative, and deeply patient-centered.”