UPMC Hamot Awarded Comprehensive Cardiac Center Certification from The Joint Commission

For the third recertification period, UPMC Hamot has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check mark for Comprehensive Cardiac Center Certification.

To receive this prestigious designation, UPMC Hamot underwent a rigorous onsite review. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with related certification standards including delivering and facilitating clinical care, supporting self-management, and program management. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts, and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

“UPMC Hamot’s certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “We commend UPMC Hamot for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and to strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality, and more compassionate care for individuals served.”

This two-year Comprehensive Cardiac Care Certification recognizes the clinical excellence and patient care at each point of cardiac treatment at UPMC Hamot. The hospital team is proud to have achieved this award for the third recertification period, as it represents their long-term commitment to providing patients with high-quality, advanced treatment for a range of cardiac conditions.

“This distinction recognizes that our program meets high clinical performance standards for targeted metrics, as well as other compliance standards,” says Theresa Kisiel, executive director of the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute at UPMC Hamot.  “Our goal in achieving this certification, and others, is to provide an even higher level of care for our patients and their families. The Comprehensive Cardiac Center designation represents our dedication to raising the bar for UPMC Hamot, constantly evaluating and evolving the care our patients receive at every touch point in the cardiac care continuum.”

Achieving the Comprehensive Cardiac Care Certification will help UPMC Hamot provide:

• Integrated, coordinated care.
• Early identification of high-risk patients and management of patient conditions at the highest level in the region.
• Patient education and information to help individuals make the most informed decisions about their care.
• Direct care for high-risk problems and stabilization.
• Safe transfer of patients who require quaternary care.
• Ongoing quality improvement.

“We congratulate UPMC Hamot for this outstanding achievement,” says Nancy Brown, chief executive officer, the American Heart Association. “This certification reflects its commitment to providing the highest quality of care for cardiac patients.”

For more information, please visit The Joint Commission website.