Portland, Ore.

The National Research Corporation (NRC) recently completed its annual Healthcare Market Guide survey of consumer health care preferences. Based on consumer perceptions reported in the survey, OHSU Hospital ranks No. 1 for best doctors, nurses, image/reputation and overall quality statewide. This is the seventh year NRC has conducted its survey and the fourth consecutive year OHSU has ranked No. 1 statewide. In a separate survey of consumers in the Portland metropolitan area, OHSU and Providence St. Vincent Medical Center tied for the No. 1 spot based on consumer perceptions.

The NRC compiles and provides data based on consumers' perceptions of their health plans, physicians, local hospitals and health systems. The NRC Healthcare Market Guide survey was sent to 1,141 households in the Portland metropolitan area and an additional 2,291 households around the state.

The NRC presents the hospital(s) that earns the highest marks from consumers in the Portland metro area with its Consumer Choice Award for having the best image and quality. Portland-area consumers rated OHSU Hospital and Providence St. Vincent Medical Center first or second in multiple categories. OHSU placed first for best image/reputation and best doctors. OHSU also was most preferred overall for cancer treatment, pediatric services and neurology services. OHSU placed second to Providence for best nurses and best overall quality.

Since the survey's inception in 1997, the number of consumers who say OHSU Hospital has the best image/reputation and doctors has grown fourfold. "It's very gratifying to see a continued six-year growth in all categories surveyed," said Bob Williams, director of OHSU Clinical Marketing and Strategic Planning.

An announcement listing OHSU and 151 of the nation's other top-rated hospitals was published in this month's issue of Modern Healthcare.