Kalispell surgery center gets accreditation accredited

 Orthopedic Surgery Center, founded in 2006 by Flathead Orthopedics, has been accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care.

This recognition means that this outpatient surgery center has met national standards for providing quality health care.

In almost five years, the surgeons at Orthopedic Surgery Center have performed more than 10,000 surgeries. Currently, the center has 12 active physicians on the medical staff and almost 30 employees.   

 About 5,000 ambulatory health care organizations across the United States have received this accreditation.

According to a press release from the center, not all seek accreditation and not all undergoing the onsite survey receive it.

“When you see our certificate of accreditation, you will know that the AAAHC, an independent, not-for-profit organization, has closely examined our facility and procedures,” said Adele Rittmueller, chief executive officer of Orthopedic Surgery Center. “It means that we as an organization care enough about our patients to strive for the highest care possible.”

Organizations seeking accreditation undergo an extensive self-assessment and on-site survey by expert surveyors, volunteer physicians, nurses and administrators. 

“Going through the process challenged us to find better ways to serve our patients, and it is a constant reminder that our responsibility is to our patients and the quality of care we provide,” she said.

Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care serves organizations providing diagnostic and medical care on an outpatient basis, not hospital facilities.