​Listowel Wingham Hospitals Alliance awarded Accreditation with Exemplary Standing

The Listowel Wingham Hospitals Alliance has been awarded "Accreditation with Exemplary Standing" by Accreditation Canada, following an on-site survey conducted in November, 2025.

This is the highest accreditation rating, and signals that the alliance has met rigorous, evidence-informed standards and demonstrates a strong, organization-wide commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

“Achieving exemplary standing is a major milestone for the alliance and a reflection of the exceptional work our teams deliver every day,” said Esther Millar, president and chief executive officer. “This result is not accidental. It is the product of a deliberate focus on continuous improvement and a shared commitment to providing safe, high-quality care close to home by all the members of our health-care teams.”

“On behalf of the board of directors, congratulations to the entire alliance team," said board chairperson Stacey Ash. "This recognition reflects strong governance and leadership accountability, and it reinforces our shared expectation that quality and safety are never ‘done,’ they are continuously strengthened. We are proud of the culture of improvement the alliance has built and sustained, and grateful to our teams for the heavy lifting behind this achievement.”

During the survey, Accreditation Canada surveyors identified multiple organizational strengths, including:
 

• A strong quality and patient safety culture supported by transparent reporting and organizational learning
• Quality improvement initiatives with meaningful patient and family engagement
• Continued strengthening of practices that protect patients, support staff, and sustain high-quality care during challenging periods
• Strong Infection Prevention and Control practices aligned with evidence-based protocols
• A robust ethical framework supporting ethical decision-making
• Strong partnerships that support safe, co-ordinated transitions in care
• Expanded access to specialized services so more patients can receive care closer to home

The alliance will continue its quality improvement work following the survey, including completing required follow-ups within the timelines outlined by Accreditation Canada.