Colquitt Regional Medical Center was distinguished as the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Vitalacy Hand Hygiene Center of Excellence Award. This accolade is awarded annually to a Vitalacy healthcare partner who demonstrates exceptional achievements in hand hygiene and patient safety. From the left, are Colquitt Regional Assistant Vice President of Nursing Toni Riddle, RN; Colquitt Regional Infection Preventionist Ashley McDaniel, MSN, RN, CIC; Colquitt Regional President and CEO Jim Matney; Colquitt Regional Chief Nursing Officer Dena Zinker, MSN, RN, NE-BC, FACHE; Vitalacy Director of Product Matt Bolton; and Colquitt Regional Assistant Director of Quality Assurance Lindy Sanderson, MSN, RN, CMSRN.

MOULTRIE – Colquitt Regional Medical Center was recently distinguished as the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Vitalacy Hand Hygiene Center of Excellence Award.

This accolade is awarded annually to a Vitalacy healthcare partner who demonstrates exceptional achievements in hand hygiene and patient safety, according to a press release from the hospital.

Colquitt Regional implemented the Vitalacy Hand Hygiene Compliance Monitoring System in 2022. This advanced system, comprising Bluetooth-enabled SmartBands and sensor-equipped sanitizer and soap dispensers, enables real-time monitoring and reporting of hand hygiene across the hospital, the press release said.

This technology not only tracks compliance but also fosters a culture of health and safety among the staff.

“Our healthcare team’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of hygiene is unwavering, and receiving this award is a testament to their dedication,” said Colquitt Regional President and CEO Jim Matney. “Our partnership with Vitalacy has been instrumental in enhancing our hand hygiene protocols, thereby ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our patients, staff and community.”

Colquitt Regional has set a benchmark in hand hygiene excellence, contributing significantly to patient safety and health standards in the community, the press release said. The hospital has implemented an innovative hand hygiene initiative among its healthcare professionals, resulting in stronger hand hygiene compliance and a significant reduction in infection rates.

“We are extremely proud to recognize Colquitt Regional Medical Center with the 2024 Vitalacy Hand Hygiene Center of Excellence Award,” said Janel Nour-Omid, CEO and co-founder of Vitalacy. “Their exemplary implementation of our system and commitment to patient safety serves as a model for healthcare facilities nationwide.”