CHILLICOTHE, OH (October 24, 2024) – When it comes to the birth of a child, families want to know they are getting the highest quality care possible.

Clinicians and staff of the Women and Children’s department at Adena Regional Medical Center (ARMC) are committed to providing that level of care. Recently, their efforts were recognized with The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Advanced Certification in Perinatal Care. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe, quality patient care.

Perinatal care encompasses all care provided to women before, during, and after giving birth, including that provided to the newborn child. ARMC previously held a perinatal care certification from The Joint Commission recognizing the quality of that care, with this advanced certification being a new designation for the hospital. The honor was awarded following a rigorous review of the hospital’s compliance with related certification standards.

“This is something we chose to pursue,” said Jamie Arledge, director of nursing at ARMC. “We know The Joint Commission sets high standards in order to meet the qualifications to achieve this designation, and it is a process that we put ourselves through because we want to provide that best level and highest quality of care for our patients.”

The Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts, and patients. Reviewers conducted on-site observations and interviews as part of the process in determining whether to award the designation. The standards and guidelines used are set for managing and monitoring aspects of perinatal care that are critical to improving and maintaining the health of newborns and their mothers.

“The Advanced Certification in Perinatal Care recognizes health care organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” said Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of accreditation and certification operations and chief nursing officer for The Joint Commission. “We commend Adena Regional Medical Center for using The Joint Commission certification process.”

Arledge said the decision to do what was necessary to navigate the rigorous process involved with certification signifies the depth of commitment Adena’s clinicians and caregivers have for the families they serve.

“Obtaining this Gold Seal of Approval is a sign to the community that here at Adena, we are committed to the highest standards of quality and patient safety and we do that through following evidence-based practices and continuous process improvements,” Arledge said.

To learn more about perinatal care services at Adena Health, visit Adena.org/obstetrics or call 740-779-7201.