The Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) grants the designation to teams that successfully navigate the rigorous challenges of modern emergency medicine. Applicants are evaluated on their ability to address critical performance metrics, including patient boarding times, stroke care efficiency, and pediatric readiness. According to ENA President Dustin Bass, the award serves as a framework for operational excellence rather than a simple trophy, pushing hospital leaders to foster a culture of data-driven improvement.

This year’s cohort includes several notable milestones. The Atlantic Overlook Medical Center Emergency Services Union Campus in New Jersey achieved a historic first, becoming the only facility to receive the recognition six times since the program’s inception in 2011. Additionally, Queens Medical Center in Hawaii, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in New Hampshire, and Cheyenne Regional Medical Center in Wyoming marked their states' first-ever Lantern recipients. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi remains the sole international honoree, securing its third award since 2020. The designation remains valid for three years, after which departments may re-apply to demonstrate ongoing commitment to their standards.