Gilchrist Receives National Recognition for Quality of Hospice and Palliative Care
Gilchrist Receives National Recognition for Quality of Hospice and Palliative Care
Quality is paramount to everything we do at Gilchrist, and we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality in the care we provide. In fact, Gilchrist has received national recognition for hospice and palliative care quality.
In December 2021, after a site visit by the national accrediting body Community Health Accreditation Partner (CHAP), Gilchrist received hospice accreditation for three years and achieved the highest level of excellence in every category. In addition, Gilchrist received certification for its palliative program, which is believed to be the first program in the tri-state region to receive CHAP certification.
Dedication and Attention to Quality
Achieving this certification from CHAP affirms Gilchrist’s dedication to quality, safety and patient/family-centered care for people with serious illnesses. It is the result of purposeful attention to the highest level of quality and our continuous commitment to going above and beyond for every patient and family we serve.
The accreditation and certification were conferred after a rigorous site visit by CHAP surveyors the week of December 6. According to the surveyors, fewer than 10 hospices in the past 12 years have achieved the same survey results as Gilchrist.
Meeting the Highest National Standards
CHAP Accreditation demonstrates that Gilchrist meets the industry’s highest nationally recognized standards. The rigorous evaluation by CHAP focuses on the quality of services and products, human and financial resources, and long-term viability. Simply stated, adherence to CHAP’s standards leads to better quality care.
“This achievement is a validation of Gilchrist’s dedication to quality,” said Catherine Hamel, president of Gilchrist. “Our staff’s thoughtful planning, preparation and adherence to the highest standards mean families can be assured that we deliver exceptional care for every patient, every time.”
What Sets Gilchrist Apart
The CHAP surveyors noted a high level of care integration and standardization within Gilchrist. For example, they observed an interdisciplinary team meeting where every discipline participated in the conversation and the care plan included each team member’s input. This integrated approach ensures the best care plan for patients and families.
The surveyors also noted that, during a full-scale pandemic, Gilchrist brought a palliative care program into the community that met national standards, which demonstrated a commitment to the community.
“By achieving CHAP Accreditation, Gilchrist has shown a commitment to excellence,” said Nathan DeGodt, CHAP President & CEO. “This is the sixth year Gilchrist has achieved CHAP Accreditation, and we are excited to continue our partnership by offering support in its commitment to providing quality care and continuous improvement.”
About CHAP
CHAP is an independent, nonprofit accrediting body for community-based health care organizations. Through “deeming authority” granted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), CHAP has the regulatory authority to survey agencies providing home health, hospice and home medical equipment services to determine if they meet the Medicare Conditions of Participation and CMS Quality Standards. CHAP’s purpose is to define and advance the highest standards of community-based care.
To learn more about Gilchrist’s hospice and palliative care, visit gilchristcares.org.
To support our work, visit gilchristcares.org/give.