Highland Hospital’s Endoscopy Center Recognized For Promoting Safety And Quality
One of 68 endoscopy centers in the nation to be recognized by The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) for promoting the highest standards of safety and quality in endoscopy.
July 14, 2009
Highland Hospital’s Endoscopy Center is one of 68 endoscopy centers in the nation to be recognized by The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) this year as part of its new program specifically dedicated to promoting the highest standards of safety and quality in endoscopy.
The ASGE Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program honors endoscopy units that follow the ASGE guidelines on privileging, quality assurance, endoscopy reprocessing, and CDC infection control guidelines. To date, 124 endoscopy units in the United States have been recognized by ASGE, including Highland Hospital.
"We are delighted to be recognized by the ASGE," said Anil Sharma, M.D., Chair, Highland Hospital Board of Directors and Chief of Gastroenterology, Highland Hospital. "We have the largest number of gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons in the community who regularly practice at our facility, which is a result of the Highland Endoscopy Center’s leadership role in providing outstanding endoscopic services. We work hard every day to provide high-quality care to our patients in a safe environment. We are proud to be acknowledged by the ASGE through its Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program for our commitment to promoting the highest standards of safety and quality."
Upon completion of the program, units receive an ASGE "Certificate of Recognition" for promoting quality in endoscopy. This symbol can be displayed to let patients and referring physicians know that the endoscopy unit is dedicated to delivering high-quality endoscopic care and has received specialized training around these principles.
About the Program
To successfully complete the program and receive a Certificate of Recognition, a center must: show proof of successful and current accreditation by a recognized accrediting body (e.g., Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care or The Joint Commission); sign an attestation affirming that certain ASGE and CDC guidelines are adopted as minimum requirements of the unit policy; have a representative of the unit complete the ASGE Recognition Course (Improving Quality and Safety in Your Endoscopy Unit); and submit the application fee(s). The Certificate of Recognition award is granted for a three-year renewable period.
ASGE and Quality
ASGE is the profession’s leader in setting standards of excellence in endoscopy through its safety guidelines and the training of its members so that patients receive the best and safest care possible. The society constantly reinforces the importance of quality among its members through member communications, including emails and newsletters, and its CME courses.
About the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Founded in 1941, the mission of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy is to be the leader in advancing patient care and digestive health by promoting excellence in gastrointestinal endoscopy. ASGE, with nearly 11,000 members worldwide, promotes the highest standards for endoscopic training and practice, fosters endoscopic research, recognizes distinguished contributions to endoscopy, and is the foremost resource for endoscopic education. Visit www.asge.org and www.screen4coloncancer.org for more information.
About Endoscopy
Endoscopy is performed by specially trained physicians, called endoscopists, who use the most current technology to diagnose and treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Using flexible, thin tubes called endoscopes, endoscopists are able to access the human digestive tract without incisions via natural orifices. Endoscopes are designed with high-intensity lighting and fitted with precision devices that allow viewing and treatment of the gastrointestinal system. In many cases, screening or treatment of conditions can be delivered via the endoscope without the need for further sedation, treatment, or hospital stay.
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