NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst has appointed Devon Bennett as its modern Chief Nursing Officer, effective February 2, 2026. The appointment places Bennett at the helm of nursing operations for one of New York City’s largest public hospitals, overseeing a team of over 1,800 professionals including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse practitioners, and ancillary staff. This chief nursing officer appointment comes at a critical time for healthcare systems navigating ongoing challenges in staffing and patient care.
Bennett brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as associated CNO at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in New York City. Prior to that, he held the position of vice president and CNO at Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center in Silver Spring, Maryland, where he led more than 750 nursing professionals through the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. His leadership during that period underscores his ability to navigate complex healthcare crises and maintain quality patient care under pressure.
A Focus on Quality and Patient-Centered Care
In his new capacity, Bennett has outlined ambitious goals for NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst. He aims to guide the hospital toward achieving both Leapfrog “A” and Magnet status within the next three years. Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades, awarded by The Leapfrog Group, assess hospital safety based on a variety of factors, including medical errors, infections, and patient experience. The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit organization committed to improving healthcare quality, and safety. Magnet recognition, conferred by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), recognizes healthcare organizations that demonstrate excellence in nursing practice and patient care.
Bennett emphasized a collaborative, people-centered leadership approach as central to achieving these goals. He plans to focus on empowering nurses, strengthening team engagement, and prioritizing patient-centered care. This approach reflects a growing recognition within the healthcare industry of the vital role nurses play in delivering high-quality, compassionate care. A strong nursing team is often directly correlated with improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst: A Vital Community Resource
NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst serves a diverse and often vulnerable population in Queens, New York. With 545 inpatient beds, the hospital provides a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. It’s a critical safety-net hospital, providing care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. The hospital has been a frontline responder during numerous public health emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and plays a crucial role in the city’s healthcare infrastructure.
The appointment of a seasoned leader like Bennett is seen as a positive step toward strengthening the hospital’s ability to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community. His experience in both New York City and Maryland provides a broad perspective on best practices in nursing leadership and patient care. The hospital’s commitment to achieving Magnet status signals a dedication to fostering a supportive and empowering environment for its nursing staff.
Prioritizing Nursing Excellence
The Magnet Recognition Program, administered by the ANCC, is a prestigious designation that recognizes healthcare organizations demonstrating exceptional nursing care. Achieving Magnet status requires a sustained commitment to nursing excellence, including ongoing professional development, evidence-based practice, and shared decision-making. The ANCC states that Magnet-recognized organizations are known for attracting and retaining top nursing talent.
Similarly, a Leapfrog “A” grade signifies a commitment to patient safety and quality. Hospitals earning this grade consistently demonstrate superior performance in preventing medical errors, infections, and other adverse events. These designations are increasingly important to patients and families when choosing healthcare providers.
Bennett’s vision for NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst extends beyond achieving these designations. He aims to create a culture of continuous improvement, where nurses are empowered to innovate and contribute to the delivery of exceptional patient care. This includes investing in training and development opportunities, fostering a collaborative work environment, and recognizing the contributions of all members of the nursing team.
The hospital will likely be closely watched as Bennett implements his strategies. The success of these initiatives will not only benefit the patients and staff of NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst but could also serve as a model for other public hospitals facing similar challenges.
Looking ahead, the hospital will continue to focus on providing accessible, high-quality care to the Queens community. Further updates on the hospital’s progress toward Leapfrog and Magnet recognition will be available on the NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst website.
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