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Endoscopy Unit Recognized for Quality and Safety

The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE), a leading gastrointestinal medical society, has recognized Titusville, Fla.-based Parrish Medical Center’s Endoscopy Unit as part of its program specifically dedicated to promoting quality in endoscopy, in all settings where it is practiced in the United States. Parrish Medical Center’s endoscopy unit is one of 167 endoscopy units to be granted the recognition since 2009. 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 and have completed specialized training on principles in quality and safety in endoscopy.

“We are honored to be recognized by ASGE for our efforts to enhance quality and safety in our endoscopy unit and to be one of only five in the state,” said Bernard Vinoski, MD, board-certified gastroenterologist and PMC endoscopy services medical director. “The program course on improving quality and safety provided us with valuable knowledge to continue to give our patients the safest and best care possible.”

Upon completion of the program, units receive an ASGE “Certificate of Recognition” for promoting quality in endoscopy.

“ASGE is delighted to be recognizing these 167 endoscopy units, whose staff work hard every day to provide high-quality care to their patients in a safe environment,” said Bret T. Petersen, MD, FASGE, chairman, ASGE Quality Assurance in Endoscopy Committee. “There continues to be an outstanding response to this program. We are proud to acknowledge these ASGE members through our Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program for their commitment to promoting the highest standards of safety and quality.”

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 (AAAHC, Joint Commission); sign an attestation affirming that certain ASGE and CDC guidelines are adopted as minimum requirements of the unit policy; and have a representative of the unit complete the ASGE Recognition Course, “Improving Quality and Safety In Your Endoscopy Unit.” The Certificate of Recognition award is granted for a three-year renewable period.

The program is applicable to all settings in the United States where endoscopy is practiced, including office-based endoscopy units, hospital-based endoscopy units, and stand-alone ambulatory endoscopy or surgery centers.

An important component of the program is an educational course that thoroughly reviews related guidelines. Honorees attended the “Improving Quality and Safety in Your Endoscopy Unit” course held in Oak Brook, Ill., in October 2009.