FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 9, 2023
GANADO, Ariz. – On May 8, Sage Memorial Hospital (SMH) was awarded the Joint Commission accreditation “Gold Seal of Approval” for demonstrating compliance with the highest standards in healthcare. The accreditation is a symbol of excellence that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.
“This is a huge success for SMH, and we are proud to have achieved this accreditation— especially in such an effortless manner,” said SMH CEO Melinda White. “I am appreciative of all the staff and the hard work involved in this successful survey; this is a real testament to our commitment to providing high-quality care for all patients who come through our doors.”
Earlier this year, from Feb. 28 through Mar. 7, the SMH underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite survey. During the review, a team of Joint Commission experts evaluated compliance with hospital standards related to patient care practices, medical records, infection control, quality management and leadership.
The survey uncovered 24 findings, which were minor compliance issues that needed to be addressed to meet The Joint Commission’s standards. Director of Quality Management, Sharon Edison, explained that addressing each finding required collaboration across departments to develop a corrective plan of action, implement the plan, evaluate its effectiveness, and ensure that the corrections are sustained.
“Ensuring that patients at risk of suicidal ideation received proper documentation, care and treatment as needed was the most challenging aspect of our survey,” said Edison. “However, through collaborative efforts from providers, nurses and members of the Behavioral Health team, this requirement was successfully met by SMH.”
The accreditation is valid for 36-months, however, with the construction of SMH’s new facility, accreditation standards will be surveyed to ensure patients receive the safest, highest-quality care. For more information about The Joint Commission, please visit www.jointcommission.org.
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Christian Bigwater
Director of Public Relations/Marketing
christian.bigwater@sagememorial.com
Office – (928) 755-4532
Cell – (928) 221-4205