South Shore University Hospital (SSUH) has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first hospital on Long Island and the first in Northwell Health to earn verification as a Quality Verification Program (QVP) Hospital from the American College of Surgeons (ACS). In granting this designation, the ACS has verified that the Department of Surgery and SSUH uphold the essential elements of surgical quality as outlined in their Optimal Resources for Surgical Quality and Safety.
This is the first time the hospital has been verified through this prestigious program, which represents the highest level of commitment to providing optimal surgical care to every patient. The verification is held by less than 1% of hospitals nationwide.
The ACS QVP is a rigorous program designed to assess a hospital’s comprehensive surgical quality. It is based on 12 program standards, outlined in the Optimal Resources for Surgical Quality and Safety 2021 ACS QVP Standards manual, and evaluates core surgical programs and their impact across various specialties, ensuring coordinated efforts in using data and systematic processes to achieve the best outcomes for patients.
“Becoming an ACS QVP-verified hospital is a testament to our unwavering commitment to surgical excellence,” said Armando Castro-Tié, MD, chair of the department of surgery at SSUH. “This designation reflects the dedication and collaboration of our entire surgical team, who prioritize quality and safety in every procedure to provide the best care for our patients.”
Hospitals seeking ACS QVP verification undergo an extensive evaluation process. This includes demonstrating a cohesive approach among providers at all levels and across departments. These guidelines serve as a benchmark for hospitals aiming to excel in surgical care, encompassing aspects such as patient-centered care, evidence-based practices, and continuous quality improvement.
“Our verification as an ACS QVP hospital underscores our commitment to driving innovation and excellence in surgical care,” said Irene Macyk, PhD, RN, president of SSUH. “We are proud to join the elite group of hospitals nationwide that have met these rigorous standards and look forward to continuing to deliver world-class care to our community.”
“ACS Quality programs are grounded in more than a century of experience and participation is an important measure of a hospital’s surgical quality,” said Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS, ACS executive director & chief executive officer. “As an ACS Surgical Quality Partner, South Shore University Hospital has shown a commitment to providing the best possible patient care, evaluating that care in a rigorous fashion, and dedicating themselves to continuous self-improvement.”
