The new UT Health San Antonio Multispecialty and Research Hospital has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for hospital accreditation, demonstrating its dedication to continuous compliance with stringent performance standards.
The Joint Commission, an independent, not-for-profit organization, is the nation’s oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care. The Gold Seal is a nationally recognized symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe, high-quality patient care.
“Being Joint Commission accredited sends a powerful message to our patients and their families that our hospital meets the highest benchmarks in safety and care, giving them confidence in exceptional quality we deliver,” said Jeff Flowers, MBA, FACHE, chief executive officer of UT Health San Antonio Multispecialty and Research Hospital. “This is a very proud moment, but it’s just the beginning of our exciting journey to transform health care in South Texas.”
A team of Joint Commission reviewers made an unannounced visit to the hospital Jan. 22 to begin a three-day survey to evaluate its adherence to rigorous standards for patient care and safety. The hospital, the first for The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio), opened on Dec. 10 to provide specialty surgery, advanced imaging and comprehensive cancer care.
Accreditation by The Joint Commission demonstrates the hospital’s commitment to the best care practices and ensures compliance with Medicare and Medicaid requirements. It is also a necessary step for accurate and timely billing processes essential for hospital operations. The on-site surveys occur at least every three years.
“Earning The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval is a testament to the team of professionals at our new hospital that is committed to providing patients and their families safe, high quality care – not just during a survey but every single day,” said Francisco G. Cigarroa, MD, senior executive vice president for health affairs and health systems at UT Health San Antonio.
The Joint Commission’s standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. They are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help health care organizations measure, assess and improve performance. The surveyors also conduct onsite observations and interviews.
“As a health care accreditor, The Joint Commission works with health care organizations across care settings to inspire safer and higher quality of care that is more equitable and compassionate,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of accreditation and certification operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission.
“Through collaborating on innovative solutions and evidence-based resources and tools, The Joint Commission helps drive improvement while maintaining accountability through our leading survey methods and standards,” he said. “We commend the UT Health San Antonio Multispecialty and Research Hospital for its commitment to advance safety, quality, equity and compassion for all patients.”
For more information on The Joint commission, visit the website.