Northern Westchester Hospital, which has long been noted for its high quality of medical care, has become one of the first five hospitals in the country to be a "Designated Planetree Patient-Centered Hospital."

The other four hospitals to be designated are: Fauquier Hospital, Warrenton, VA; Valleyview Hospital, Glenwood Springs, CO; Mid Columbia Medical Center, The Dalles, OR; and Sharp Coronado Hospital, Coronado, CA.

These five hospitals were chosen to participate in a Planetree pilot project the past year. The criteria for determining patient-centered care was developed based largely on direct patient feedback from focus groups of patients who shared what was most important to them during hospitalization. Requirements include: Access to information; family involvement; nutrition; a healing environment; arts and entertainment; massage and caring touch; spirituality and diversity; integrative therapies; and healthy communities.

Northern Westchester Hospital, which is also a Designated Stroke Center and has the highest possible rating for a community hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, has made the comfort of patient as a means to a quicker, less stressful recovery a strong priority. The cancer center is reminiscent of a spa, with fish tanks, soft lighting and background music, artwork and comfortable seating. Specially trained nurses practice Reiki, an ancient stress reduction treatment, and acupuncture. All rooms are private, and the hospital uses "green" cleaning solutions that leave no pungent antiseptic odors. There are beds and separate areas for family members to sleep or relax during a loved one's hospitalization.

Just as representatives from Northern Westchester Hospital went to observe other hospitals aiming to adopt Planetree principles, hospitals interested in the concept are now touring NWH. A group from the Netherlands has already visited, hospital officials said.