Blue Cross Of Idaho Announces 2007 Hospital Quality Awards
Hospitals Recognized For Improving Patient Safety And Health Care Quality
March 2, 2008
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Stewart Johnson
208.286.3478
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BOISE - Blue Cross of Idaho today announced the winners of its 2007 Hospital Quality Awards, distinguishing the recipients as the top performing hospitals participating in the company's Hospital Quality Incentive Program. The incentive program and quality awards are part of Blue Cross of Idaho's ongoing efforts to promote a healthier Idaho and improve quality in health care.
The winners of the Blue Cross of Idaho 2007 Hospital Quality Awards are:
Urban hospitals:
- Kootenai Medical Center, Coeur d'Alene, Award of Achievement
- Mercy Medical Center, Nampa, Award of Merit
Rural hospitals:
- Steele Memorial Medical Center, Salmon, Award of Achievement
- Shoshone Medical Center, Kellogg, Award of Merit
"I'm pleased for the four hospitals that earned the 2007 Hospital Quality Awards, and I enthusiastically congratulate them for their efforts," said Ray Flachbart, president and CEO of Blue Cross of Idaho. "The 30 hospitals that participated in the Hospital Quality Incentive Program deserve thanks and recognition for their involvement because they are committed to making improvements to the quality, safety and affordability of healthcare in Idaho."
The Blue Cross of Idaho Hospital Quality Incentive Program, developed in collaboration with Idaho hospitals and the Idaho Hospital Association (IHA), measures patient safety and improved clinical outcomes, and rewards hospitals based on their results. The program evaluates several criteria, including the implementation of evidence-based measures known to improve health outcomes in treating pneumonia, heart attack, congestive heart failure and diabetes. The program also evaluates and promotes patient safety by monitoring infections and surgical complications.
"Our Quality Incentive Program ties financial incentives to hospital improvement and patient safety," said Dr. Doug Dammrose, chief medical officer of Blue Cross of Idaho. "When you improve the quality of care you save lives and reduce overall health care costs."
Dr. Dammrose says that Blue Cross of Idaho will continue working with hospitals to improve the quality of health care in Idaho.
Winners will receive their 2007 Hospital Quality Awards today at the "Hospital Quality Conference" in Boise.
About Blue Cross of Idaho
Blue Cross of Idaho is a leader in delivering innovative health care products, services and information to more than 550,000 members. For 62 years, the company has served its customers by offering health insurance at a competitive price and has served the people of Idaho through support of community organizations, programs and events that promote good health. Blue Cross of Idaho is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For more information, visit www.bcidaho.com.
