Geisinger Nurse Residency Program Expands Accreditation

The Geisinger Nurse Residency Program recently received accreditation with distinction from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). The ANCC’s Practice Transition Accreditation Program (PTAP) sets the global standard for residency or fellowship programs that transition registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses into new practice settings.

Geisinger nurses react to news of accreditation with distinction for the Geisinger Nurse Residency Program from the American Nurses Credentialing Center during celebrations in Danville. Nursing teams from other campuses participated via video feed.

To achieve PTAP accreditation, organizations must pass an extensive application process, including submission of written documentation in the form of a self-study, and a site visit.

Accreditation with distinction is the highest form of recognition awarded by the ANCC’s accreditation program.

“This recognition speaks volumes about the experience and personal support the Geisinger Nurse Residency Program offers new nurses,” said Lindsey Ford, DNP, RN, senior director of nursing excellence and nurse residency/fellowship programs. “By immersing our new nursing colleagues in the environments where they’ll build their careers, we’re laying a strong foundation for long-term success and professional growth.”

The Geisinger Nurse Residency Program first earned accreditation in 2021 when it became only the 208th program globally to achieve recognition. That 4-year accreditation included Geisinger Community Medical Center, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre.

This recent accomplishment expands that recognition to these hospitals in Geisinger’s central and north-central regions:

• Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital
• Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital
• Geisinger Medical Center
• Geisinger Medical Center Muncy
• Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital

The Geisinger Nurse Residency Program was established in 2015, and all new graduate nurses are enrolled into the 12-month program. It’s designed to transition newly graduated nurses from academia to professional practice in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Geisinger nurses react to news of accreditation with distinction for the Geisinger Nurse Residency Program from the American Nurses Credentialing Center during celebrations in Moosic