Nebraska ER Wins Global Award for Patient Care Excellence

CHI Health Good Samaritan in Kearney just joined an elite group of 126 emergency departments worldwide recognized for exceptional patient care and innovation. The Emergency Nurses Association awarded the hospital's Dr. Kenton L. Shaffer Emergency Care Center its coveted Lantern Award, a distinction that celebrates outstanding quality, safety, and care.

Only two Nebraska hospitals earned the honor this year. The award recognizes emergency departments that go beyond standard care to create real improvements in how they treat patients and support their staff.

"It's a tremendous honor, reflecting the skill and commitment of our team," says Kati Bennett, the emergency department's director. "Our mission is to ensure every patient receives the best possible care and experiences safe outcomes."

To earn the award, Good Samaritan shared detailed stories of how they engage employees and improve patient experiences. They also provided hard data proving their high-quality outcomes. An independent committee from the Emergency Nurses Association reviewed and scored every application.

The recognition carries extra weight because of Good Samaritan's critical role in rural healthcare. The hospital operates as one of Nebraska's only Level II Trauma Centers outside the state's two largest cities, Lincoln and Omaha.

Good Samaritan also runs an Advanced Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and serves as the region's designated Primary Stroke Center. With support from AirCare, Nebraska's longest-standing medical helicopter service, the hospital delivers rapid critical care throughout central Nebraska and northern Kansas.

Why This Inspires

Rural communities often struggle to access the same quality healthcare as urban areas. Good Samaritan proves that exceptional emergency care isn't limited to big city hospitals. Their team of dedicated nurses and healthcare professionals is raising the bar for patient safety and outcomes in communities that need it most.

The award also highlights how investing in staff well-being creates better patient care. When healthcare workers feel supported and engaged, everyone benefits.

Nearly 40,000 emergency nurses worldwide belong to the Emergency Nurses Association, making this global recognition truly meaningful for a hospital serving rural Nebraska and Kansas.