MUSC Medical Center: A special thank-you
Our JCAHO survey conducted during the week of Nov. 6 was an outstanding success. The Medical Center (including Ambulatory Care Services and CMH), Laboratory and Institute of Psychiatry achieved scores of 91, 93 and 99 respectively. I congratulate everyone for an outstanding job. This past year has been most challenging for everyone. We planned for and carried out a significant organizational change while taking measures to control costs, and we have all felt the pressure. We implemented new systems, policies and documentation requirements to meet the increasingly complex JCAHO standards. We maintained a high volume of patients . . . and throughout it all have provided excellent and compassionate care. We were well aware that the JCAHO has increased its level of scrutiny, and it was evident in the survey process. Our most significant problem noted in the survey was inadequate space in the Emergency Room. We were aware of this problem and plans are underway for renovation. The JCAHO survey team was very impressed with many things . . . such as our performance improvement plan, policies and documentation, and most importantly . . . our people. I am most proud of how everyone responded and the comments made about our physicians, nurses, other health care professionals and support staff. The survey team stated time and again that our physicians are “very impressive.” They reported that we have “excellent evidence of interdisciplinary cooperation” and “great interdisciplinary collaboration.” They stated that we have “very involved and fine staff” and stated that employees do a “super job.” They indicated a “very positive” experience with security and others. The survey team expressed appreciation for the “very positive interaction” during their visits and discussions on the units. Fulfillment of the rigorous JCAHO standards and preparation for the survey, while burdensome, serves us well as an organization. It ensures that we meet high standards for patient care, and that we have appropriate policies and support structures in place. As a result of this survey, we are more attuned to our strengths and our areas needing improvement. We are better prepared as an organization and as individuals to meet the many challenges in fulfilling our mission. Hats off to everyone for your hard work toward strengthening our organization and in meeting the challenge. Thanks for an incredible job. Sincerely, W. Stuart Smith
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