Announcing the Pathway to Excellence® Program

The American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC) Pathway to Excellence® designation is earned by healthcare organizations that create work environments where nurses can flourish. The award substantiates the professional satisfaction of nurses and identifies best places to work.

A Pathway to Excellence designated organization is committed to nurses, to what nurses identify as important to their practice, and to valuing nurses' contributions in the workplace. This designation confirms to the public that nurses working in a Pathway to Excellence organization know their efforts are supported. The award invites other nurses to join their colleagues in this desirable and nurturing environment.

The Pathway to Excellence designation is granted based on the confirmed presence of characteristics known as “The Pathway to Excellence Criteria” in the facility. These criteria are foundational to a nursing practice environment that has a positive impact on nurse job satisfaction and retention. These criteria are integrated into operating policies, procedures, and management practices of all Pathway to Excellence-designated healthcare organizations.

For an organization to earn the Pathway to Excellence designation, it must successfully undergo a thorough review process that documents foundational quality initiatives in creating a positive work environment—as defined by nurses and supported by research. These initiatives must be present in the facility's practices, policies, and culture. Nurses in the organization verify the presence of the criteria in the organization through participation in a completely confidential online survey.

The Pathway to Excellence designation is ideally suited to small and medium-sized healthcare organizations, but is attainable by all healthcare facilities around the world.