Nurse Communication Ranked Among Top 8% of Hospitals Nationwide at Clay County Medical Center

Clay County Medical Center (CCMC) has earned national recognition for excellence in nurse communication, receiving a 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This achievement places CCMC among the top 8% of hospitals in the United States for nurse-patient communication.

The rating is based on results from the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey, which measures patients’ experiences during their hospital stay. The nurse communication category evaluates how effectively nurses explain information, listen to patients, and treat them with courtesy and respect.

“Clear, compassionate communication is at the heart of great nursing care,” said Julie Crimmins, MBA, MSN, RN, Director of Inpatient Nursing at CCMC. “This honor reflects the dedication of our nursing staff to truly listening to patients, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and supported every step of the way.”

The CMS rating is based on patient survey data collected between October 2023 and September 2024 and released in August 2025. The recognition highlights CCMC’s ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional patient-centered care and creating positive experiences for every patient.

“This recognition places CCMC among an elite group of hospitals nationwide,” said Austin Gillard, CEO of Clay County Medical Center. “We are proud that patients recognize and appreciate the care our team provides.”

Only a small percentage of hospitals across the country achieved a 5-star rating in nurse communication, making this accomplishment a significant reflection of the quality, compassion, and professionalism demonstrated by CCMC’s nursing team every day.

September 23, 2025