Zero Harm in a Rural Setting: Three CAHs Reach Zero HAIs

ORH recently launched a Rural Organization Highlight Series to recognize and share the inspiring work of organizations creating positive change in rural communities throughout Oregon. This week’s highlight: Samaritan’s three Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs). 
 
In 2025, three Samaritan CAHs, Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital, Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital and Lebanon Community Hospital, achieved zero hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), including CLABSI, CAUTI and C. difficile. Even more impressively, all three hospitals have maintained those zero rates throughout 2026. Samaritan North Lincoln also reported zero surgical site infections in 2025. 
 
This achievement was made possible through daily maintenance of lines and drains, effective use of Epic tools and the integration of evidence-based practices into clinical documentation. Strong collaboration between antimicrobial stewardship, infection prevention and multidisciplinary hospital-acquired condition (HAC) teams ensured timely antibiotic administration before surgery and rapid problem-solving when risks were identified. 
 
The impact extends far beyond the hospital setting. By preventing infections such as C. difficile, these hospitals are protecting patients during hospitalization while reducing the risk of transmission to families, healthcare facilities, and communities across Oregon. Their success demonstrates how a shared commitment to patient safety can drive meaningful improvements in both healthcare quality and population health. 

Do you want ORH to highlight your organization? Email Stepha Dragoon for next steps.