The Joint Clubs at Northeast Baptist and St. Luke’s Baptist hospitals are the first orthopedic programs in San Antonio to earn the Gold Seal of Approval™ from The Joint Commission, the nation’s largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care. The Center of Excellence designation is for quality care in total knee and hip replacement.

Why is Joint Club so effective for patients? An emphasis on educating patients before their surgery prepares them for exactly what to expect. All the orthopedic surgeons are Certified in their field. Finally, going through education and rehabilitation with other patients creates a supportive atmosphere.

To earn the Gold Seal, a disease management program undergoes an extensive, unannounced, on-site evaluation by a team of Joint Commission reviewers. The program is evaluated through an assessment of a program’s processes, the program’s ability to evaluate and improve care within its own organization, and interviews with patients and staff.

“This certification means Baptist Health System does the right things and does them well for knee and hip replacement patients,” says Jean E. Range, M.S., R.N., C.P.H.Q., executive director, Disease-Specific Care Certification, Joint Commission.

“Baptist Health System voluntarily pursued this comprehensive, independent evaluation to enhance the safety and quality of care we provide,” says Graham Reeve, President and Chief Executive Officer of Baptist Health System. “It’s part of our effort to live our mission of helping people achieve health for life through compassionate service inspired by faith.”