BCHC Earns 5-Star Rating for Nurse Communication

By: Aprill Murphy

ALBION, NE – (June 17) Boone County Health Center has been recognized among the nation’s top hospitals for nurse communication, earning a 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

The recognition places Boone County Health Center among just 13 hospitals in Nebraska to receive the highest possible rating for nurse communication, regardless of hospital size.

The rating is based on patient responses to the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. CMS uses the survey to measure how patients perceive their care, including whether nurses listened carefully, explained clearly, and treated patients with courtesy and respect. The data was collected between July 2024 and June 2025 and released by CMS on May 15, 2026.

For patients, strong communication can make a significant difference in their healthcare experience. Understanding medications, treatment plans, discharge instructions, and next steps can help patients feel more confident and informed about their care.

“When patients understand their care, outcomes improve,” said Cindy Lesiak, Vice President of Patient Services at Boone County Health Center. “Our nurses work hard to explain care clearly, answer questions, and help patients feel comfortable. That communication extends to families and caregivers as well, because they are often an important part of the healing and recovery process.”

CMS publicly reports 10 HCAHPS star ratings that help patients compare hospitals across the country. The nurse communication rating specifically measures how patients evaluate their interactions with nursing staff during their hospital stay.

Boone County Health Center is honored to receive this recognition and remains committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care to the communities it serves.