For the second evaluation in a row, MidMichigan Medical Center-Alpena has received an A report card for safety from Washington-based watchdog group Leapfrog.

In the spring 2021 Leapfrog rankings, The News reported recently, the Alpena hospital scored above-average in its efforts to prevent most common infections, most common surgical mishaps, all categories on general safety practices such as handwashing and communicating with patients about medications, and most categories in staff management.

It scored below-average in a handful of categories, including preventing serious breathing problems and dangerous blood clots after surgery, preventing patient falls and injuries, and putting specially trained doctors in care of intensive care unit patients.

The Midland-based MidMichigan Health owns the Alpena hospital. Leapfrog also awarded an A to the group’s flagship hospital in Midland and gave B’s to the MidMichigan hospitals in West Branch and Gratiot, The News reported.

A community needs a good hospital. Having one not only keeps its residents safer and healthier, it also makes the community a more attractive place to live and invest.

Northeast Michigan now can boast a solid track record of good health care.

Congratulations to everyone involved in keeping MidMichigan Medical Center-Alpena safe. Keep up the good work.