Providence St. Joseph Hospital, Orange First in California to Earn Advanced Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Certification from The Joint Commission

Providence St. Joseph Hospital, Orange has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Advanced Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Certification by demonstrating continuous compliance with its rigorous performance standards. This achievement makes it the first hospital in California, and only the fifth in the nation to receive this disease-specific certification.

The Gold Seal of Approval® is a nationally recognized symbol of quality that reflects a healthcare organization’s commitment to safe, high-quality patient care.

The Advanced COPD Certification evaluates how healthcare organizations use clinical outcomes and performance measures to identify opportunities to improve care, while also educating and preparing patients and caregivers for successful transitions after discharge.

“This certification reflects years of dedication, collaboration and innovation by our caregivers and physicians who are deeply committed to improving the lives of patients living with COPD,” said Brian Helleland, Chief Executive of Providence St. Joseph Hospital. “Being the first hospital in California to achieve this distinction underscores our commitment to clinical excellence and compassionate, evidence-based care that supports patients at every stage of their journey.”

During an onsite review, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated Providence St. Joseph Hospital’s compliance with certification standards, including the development of a collaborative interdisciplinary team dedicated to implementing evidence-based best practices and improving patient care across the healthcare continuum. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with healthcare experts, providers, measurement specialists and patients.

“The Advanced Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Certification recognizes healthcare 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 executive for The Joint Commission. “We commend Providence St. Joseph Hospital, Orange for using Joint Commission’s certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality and more compassionate care for the individuals it serves.”

Providence St. Joseph Hospital spent two years preparing for this certification, building a collaborative team of physicians, respiratory therapists, nurses and support staff to identify new practice guidelines, track quality outcomes and redesign care processes focused on patient safety and improved care across inpatient and outpatient settings.

COPD is a chronic lung disease that can significantly impact breathing and quality of life. Advanced COPD programs focus on coordinated, evidence-based care designed to reduce complications, improve outcomes and help patients better manage their condition.