During the recent Sandoval County Commission meeting, Kate Becker, CEO of UNM Hospitals, provided an insightful quarterly update on the Sandoval Regional Medical Center (SRMC). This meeting highlighted significant developments in healthcare quality and community impact, particularly as SRMC celebrated its thirteenth anniversary.

Becker began her presentation by reflecting on the hospital's growth over the past 13 years, noting that SRMC has facilitated hundreds of thousands of patient visits and exams within Sandoval County. This local access to healthcare services has been crucial, as it has reduced the need for residents to travel long distances for medical care.

A key focus of Becker's update was the hospital's performance in quality metrics, as assessed by the Leapfrog Group, an organization that evaluates healthcare facilities based on safety and quality data. Becker proudly announced that SRMC received a "B" grade from Leapfrog in spring 2025, a notable improvement from its previous "C" rating in fall 2023. This advancement reflects the hospital's commitment to enhancing patient safety and care standards.

One significant improvement mentioned was the integration of technology to support safer medication administration. Becker explained the implementation of barcode medication administration, which ensures that the correct medication is given to the right patient by matching barcodes on wristbands and medications. This technological upgrade is part of a broader effort to enhance patient safety and streamline hospital processes.

In conclusion, the updates from Becker underscore the ongoing efforts of SRMC to improve healthcare quality and accessibility for Sandoval County residents. The commission's support for these initiatives is vital as the community continues to benefit from enhanced local healthcare services. As SRMC moves forward, the focus will remain on maintaining high standards of care and integrating innovative solutions to meet the needs of the population.