September 11, 1998

The MGH earned four Mercury Awards as one of the region's top hospitals, the only institution to be honored in all categories – overall performance, cardiology, orthopedics and oncology.

The awards, presented at a ceremony Sept. 9 at the Museum of Science, recognized the top three regional medical centers in each category for excellence in quality of care, patient services and reputation. BWH received three awards, in overall performance, orthopedics and oncology.

Co-sponsored by HCIA, Inc. and America's Health Network, the Mercury Awards reflect the results of a study that evaluated 44 area hospitals using information related to patient outcomes, use of resources, access to services, staffing ratios, efficiency and drawing power. The goal of the study is to offer consumers information to help them make informed decisions about health care services.

Full results of the study are available online at the America's Health Network web site, www.ahn.com. Similar studies are being completed in 20 other major metropolitan regions throughout the country.