ROCHESTER, NY - Rochester Regional Health’s Nurse Residency Program has been awarded Accreditation with Distinction from the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Commission on Accreditation in Practice Transition Programs (PTAP), the highest level of recognition given by the national accrediting body. The four-year accreditation, granted in September, recognizes the health system’s commitment to excellence in supporting newly licensed registered nurses as they transition into professional practice.
The ANCC evaluates residency and fellowship programs across the country to ensure they meet rigorous standards for preparing nurses to provide safe, high-quality patient care. Earning Accreditation with Distinction places Rochester Regional Health’s program among an elite group of nurse residency programs nationwide.
Rochester Regional Health also earned Accreditation with Distinction across all hospitals in its system, underscoring the organization’s systemwide commitment to developing and supporting new nurses.
“Our Nurse Residency Program is designed to ensure new nurses feel supported, confident, and prepared as they begin their careers,” said Deborah Maier, Vice President, Nursing Innovation, Education, Simulation & Research. “Receiving Accreditation with Distinction from the ANCC affirms the dedication of our nursing leaders, educators, and mentors who are committed to helping the next generation of nurses thrive.”
Throughout the year-long program, participants attend monthly sessions during work hours focused on building clinical confidence, strengthening professional skills, and fostering collaboration across care teams. Nurses benefit from expert-led education, mentorship, and opportunities to connect with peers throughout the organization.
Research shows accredited nurse residency programs help increase clinical competency, reduce medical errors and stress among new nurses, improve job satisfaction, and strengthen long-term nurse retention.
“Transitioning from nursing school to clinical practice is one of the most important and challenging steps in a nurse’s career,” said Dr. Dan Ireland, Executive Vice President, Chief Nursing Executive and Patient Care Officer at Rochester Regional Health. “Our Nurse Residency Program provides the structured mentorship, education, and support new nurses need to build confidence and develop strong clinical judgment. Ultimately, programs like this not only strengthen our nursing workforce, they enhance the quality and safety of care we provide to our patients and communities.”
The program is part of Rochester Regional Health’s ongoing investment in professional nursing development and workforce excellence.
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About Rochester Regional Health
Rochester Regional Health is an integrated health services organization serving the people of Western New York, the Finger Lakes, St. Lawrence County, and beyond. The system includes nine hospitals; primary and specialty practices, rehabilitation centers, ambulatory campuses and urgent care facilities; innovative senior services, facilities and independent housing; a wide range of behavioral health services; and Rochester Regional Health Laboratories and ACM Global Laboratories, a global leader in patient and clinical trials. Rochester Regional Health is the Rochester region's second-largest employer.
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