Marking the second time earning this prestigious recognition, WellSpan is proud to announce that the WellSpan York Hospital Emergency Department has been awarded the esteemed Lantern Award for the years 2024-2027. The Lantern Award, presented by the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA), is given to emergency departments across the nation for exceptional and innovative performance. 

“As a Level 1 Region Resource Trauma Center providing the most complex care, our emergency department team is driven by a singular mission: to deliver the highest quality of care to our patients when they need it the most. This recognition validates our efforts and inspires us to continue to set and deliver new standards in emergency care,” said Dr. Alyssa Moyer, vice president of WellSpan and president of WellSpan York Hospital. “Receiving the Lantern Award again is a testament to the steadfast dedication and hard work of our entire team.” 

The award acknowledges leadership, practice, education, advocacy, and research, highlighting the incorporation of evidence-based practices and innovation into emergency care. It serves as a visible symbol of our unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and a healthy work environment. 

Out of numerous hospitals nationwide, WellSpan York Hospital Emergency Department has been chosen as one of the select few to receive this distinguished honor. The Lantern Award is designated for a three-year period, further solidifying the department's dedication to excellence. The department had previously received this recognition in 2021. 

“Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care to patients during the most critical moments,” said Diane Mcfarland, vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer at WellSpan York Hospital. “This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without our world-class nursing team, supported by Cathy Stauffer, who is serving as interim nurse director. This award speaks to how our dedicated team members collaborate tirelessly around the clock to ensure the best possible experiences and outcomes for our patients.” 

WellSpan York Hospital is an award-winning hospital and is accredited by the Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation as a Level 1 Regional Resource Trauma Center. It is the only accredited trauma center in York, Adams, and Franklin counties, serving more than one million residents and caring for more than 2,000 trauma patients each year.  

For more information about York Hospital Emergency Department and our commitment to providing high-quality care, please visit WellSpan.org.