The Magnet application process consists of four phases: Application, documentation, appraisal and review. Before applying, hospitals can see how well they meet the standards for Magnet designation by ordering the manual for the Magnet Recognition Program from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The manual costs $75, plus shipping and handling.

Application: The initial application fee is $1,000. Once an organization submits an application, it has up to two years to complete the process. The application will identify a projected date for submitting documentation.

Documentation: The applicant must provide documentation showing how it meets core criteria and Magnet criteria. Documentation is limited to four binders. The applicant submits documentation and an appraisal fee that depends on the size of the organization. It can vary between $9,000 and $45,000 or more for acute care facilities and between $3,700 and $10,000 for long-term care facilities.

Appraisal and site visit: When appraisers are appointed, the applicant pays a $500 honorarium per appraiser. Appraisers will examine the documentation to see if it meets core criteria. If it does not meet the criteria, the applicant is asked to send more information. If it still does not meet the criteria, the application is terminated. If it does, appraisers then score the documentation on how well it meets Magnet criteria.

If the score falls within a determined range, a date for a site visit is set. The applicant pays $1,500 per day per appraiser for the site visit. The number of appraisers and the time they spend at the organization depends on the size and complexity of the facility. Usually, two appraisers spend two days on the site visit. The applicant also pays travel and lodging expenses for the appraisers.

Review and notification: The appraisers submit a final report and recommendations to the American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet program office. The Commission on Magnet Recognition reviews the findings and decides whether to award Magnet status. The process takes about eight weeks and the applicant is notified immediately of the commission’s decision.

For more details about applying for Magnet status, visit www.nursingworld.org/ancc/Magnet/about.htm or call the Magnet Program staff at (202) 651-7262.