Saint Joseph London has received recognition from Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) as a Blue Distinction Center for Spine Surgery. The hospital also achieved recertification as a Blue Distinction Center for Knee and Hip Replacement, with an added distinction for offering affordable, quality care and positive patient outcomes.
The Blue Distinction program identifies hospitals and ambulatory care centers that demonstrate expertise in patient safety and deliver improved health results. Quality assessments are based on objective measures developed by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association in partnership with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
According to the announcement, designated spine facilities show 28% fewer readmissions and 29% fewer complications within 90 days after surgery compared to non-designated facilities. Similarly, knee and hip replacement centers have 21% fewer readmissions and complications within the same period.
John C. Yanes, president of Saint Joseph London, said, “The board certified orthopedic surgeons at Saint Joseph London have continued to offer the highest quality of care to the people in our community. We are proud that in just a short time, our spine surgery has been recognized as a high quality program. With a comprehensive approach to care, and one of the only area practices that offers advanced technology treatment options, Saint Joseph London offers residents of London and other nearby communities access to high quality orthopedic care close to home. Saint Joseph London is honored to receive this national designation that recognizes our dedication and elevated care we provide to our spine and hip and knee replacement patients.”
To qualify for these designations, facilities must be fully accredited by at least one national accrediting organization as either a hospital or ambulatory surgery center. They must also maintain low complication, mortality, and unplanned readmission rates within 90 days after elective primary total knee and hip replacements; implement enhanced recovery processes; and participate in Anthem BCBS Kentucky’s network.
The criteria used for these recognitions incorporate data from sources such as the American Joint Replacement Registry. Since its launch in 2005, the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program has aimed to help patients find specialty care at lower costs across several areas including orthopedics.
For more information about the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program or to see designated providers, visit the Anthem website.
Saint Joseph Health is part of CommonSpirit Health and operates multiple hospitals across Kentucky. Saint Joseph London is a 150-bed facility serving southeastern Kentucky since 1926.
The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is a federation of independent companies providing coverage for one-third of Americans nationwide.
