The Leapfrog Group issued Hospital Safety Scores for 40 Colorado hospitals. The scores rate hospitals on 28 measures related to patient safety. These indicators show how well hospitals have adopted processes known to save lives as well as how well they perform on outcomes such as health care acquired infections.

The Hospital Safety Scores assign an A, B, C, D or F letter grade to local hospitals. The Leapfrog Group developed the rating system with input from national medical experts and with the hope it would spur hospitals to compete on quality.

To find a quality hospital, consumers should:

• Use the free Hospital Safety Scores app to begin to review the safety of hospitals in your area. The Hospital Safety Scores assign grades to hospitals, and these grades represent the basic building blocks of patient safety, such as hand-washing and nurse staffing.

• Refer to Leapfrog Hospital Survey ratings. These measures provide safety and quality ratings on particular areas and processes of hospital care.

• Use this information to discuss patient safety with your doctor.

About the Colorado Business Group on Health

We are committed to changing the way employers buy health care. Through education, pilot projects and practical purchasing tools, we help forward-thinking Colorado employers get more value for their health care dollars. Our goal is to reduce the upward cost spiral and improve employee health. For more information: www.coloradohealthonline.org.