For many years, Community Medical Center in Toms River was the subject of local humor, with long waits in the emergency room and dark jokes about it being a place where patients could check in but not check out. But over the years, the hospital has worked tirelessly to improve both its services and reputation. With personal experience involving births and recent stays, it’s clear that this hospital is now a far cry from those old jokes.
The days of making light of “Paul Kimball” are over, as the Leapfrog Group, an organization dedicated to assessing healthcare quality, has raised the bar for the hospital. Using up to 31 safety measures, from infection rates to surgical complications, CMC now scores well above the national average, with a safety rating of 0.852 compared to the national figure of 0.746. This score places CMC ahead of many institutions that have struggled to meet safety standards.
The hospital has earned “above average” marks for reducing infections like C. diff, urinary tract infections, and sepsis after surgery. Some areas, such as surgical site infections after colon surgery, were rated as average, but overall, CMC’s infection rates remain impressive, considering the challenges hospitals face today. A commitment to strict hygiene, thorough cleaning routines, and isolating patients with contagious conditions all contribute to the hospital’s current high standing.
Now recognized as one of the safest hospitals in the region, CMC stands out in Ocean County, reaffirming its transformation from a place of local lore to a true leader in patient care and safety. The hospital has even been awarded an “A” grade in the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade for Fall 2024, solidifying its commitment to patient safety and minimizing preventable harm.
