Weight-Loss Surgery Maintains Accreditation
The Crozer Health Comprehensive Bariatric Surgery Program at Crozer-Chester Medical Center was recently reaccredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP).
Accreditation certifies that the program meets quality and safety standards originally identified by the American College of Surgeons. Crozer’s program has been accredited since 2012.
To earn the designation, all aspects of the program’s surgical processes are closely examined and data on health outcomes is collected. Designation as a comprehensive center also means that the program shares information about clinical pathways, protocols and outcomes.
“Being accredited by the MBSAQIP for six years means that we’ve established notable sustainability in the quality of our program.” said Aley Tohamy, M.D., medical director of bariatric surgery and chair of surgery at Crozer Health. “We believe that reaching and maintaining a healthy weight is a lifelong commitment, and we’re here to guide our patients through that journey.” The program has performed more than 1,000 surgeries since accreditation, with an outstanding history of outcomes, Tohamy said.
Bariatric surgeons must demonstrate significant expertise. Site inspectors review volumes and outcomes, surgical techniques and the surgeon's commitment to stay abreast of the most current and appropriate surgical treatments.
The inspectors also complete a thorough site inspection to verify a commitment to excellence and safety. This includes a walk-through of all "touch-points" that a typical pre- and post-op bariatric patient will encounter.
The program must demonstrate a comprehensive treatment plan throughout each point of care in the continuum. Accredited hospitals also must devote the time and resources needed to ensure ongoing bariatric education for staff members.
The Crozer Health Comprehensive Bariatric Surgery Program is also recognized as an Aetna Institute of Quality Bariatric Surgery Facility; an Independence Blue Cross Blue Distinction Center; an Optum Bariatric Centers of Excellence and a Blue Health Intelligence Top Performing Facility.
Additionally, Optum’s Clinical Sciences Institute designated Crozer Health ’s Comprehensive Bariatric Surgery Program a Bariatric Center of Excellence last December. Optum Bariatric Centers of Excellence perform more successful bariatric procedures with fewer complications and readmissions than many other facilities in the area.
To learn more, call 610-619-8450 or visit the program's web page. Plan to attend one of Crozer Health ’s free bariatric surgery seminars by registering online.
