Published: August 19, 2008 05:32 pm      

Chickasaw Nation Health earns seal of approval

The Chickasaw Nation Health System has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ by demonstrating compliance with The Joint Commission’s national standards for health care quality and safety.

Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission is dedicated to continuously improving the safety and quality of the nation’s health care through voluntary accreditation.

The Joint Commission’s on-site survey of the Chickasaw Nation Health System occurred in June.

“Above all, the national standards are intended to stimulate continuous, systematic and organization-wide improvement in an organization’s performance and the outcomes of care,” says Darlene Christiansen, executive director, Hospital Accreditation Program, Joint Commission.

“The community should be proud that Chickasaw Nation Health System is focusing on the most challenging goal -- to continuously raise quality and safety to higher levels.”

Bill Lance, Chickasaw Nation Health Systems Administrator, spoke of his pride in a staff whose members ask what needs to be done to be accredited by The Joint Commission.

“In addition, CNHS and staff appreciate the educational aspect of the survey and the opportunity to interact with the team of surveyors,” said Lance. “The accreditation is proof of an organization-wide commitment to provide quality care on an ongoing basis.”

“The Chickasaw Nation is proud to receive accreditation through the Joint Commission,” said Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby.

“It is because of our employees who strive daily, through hard work and dedication, to make sure each patient receives the highest quality care that we receive this recognition.”