Jersey Shore University earns Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for inpatient diabetes care program

Jersey Shore University Medical Center has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval™ for its inpatient diabetes care program by providing the best care available for patients with diabetes, and successfully meeting The Joint Commission's national standards for health care quality and safety. Jersey Shore is the first hospital in the central New Jersey region to receive the accreditation, a testament to the quality of Jersey Shore's comprehensive approach towards inpatient diabetes care.

The certification award recognizes Jersey Shore's dedication to The Joint Commission's standards. Jersey Shore underwent a rigorous on-site review in November 2013, when a team of Joint Commission expert reviewers evaluated Jersey Shore for compliance with the requirements for The Joint Commission's Disease-Specific Care Certification program as well as inpatient diabetes care-specific standards, clinical practice guidelines and performance measures. The Joint Commission's Advanced Certification for Inpatient Diabetes Care, developed in conjunction with the American Diabetes Association (ADA), provides standards related to:
•Staff education requirements
•Written blood glucose monitoring protocols
•Plans for the treatment of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia
•Data collection of incidences of hypoglycemia
•Patient education on self-management of diabetes
•An identified program champion or program champion team

"The Joint Commission recognition affirms that Jersey Shore is committed to providing comprehensive inpatient diabetes care - including education and tailored treatment plans - to help patients successfully manage this chronic disease," says Steven G. Littleson, FACHE, President, Jersey Shore University Medical Center. "The diabetes rate in Monmouth and Ocean Counties is higher than the national average, and Jersey Shore is dedicated to delivering the most beneficial diabetes care available to our community."

"In achieving Joint Commission advanced certification, Jersey Shore has demonstrated its commitment to the highest level of care for its patients with diabetes," says Jean Range, M.S., R.N., C.P.H.Q., executive director, Disease-Specific Care Certification, The Joint Commission. "Certification is a voluntary process and I commend Jersey Shore for successfully undertaking this challenge to elevate its standard of care and instill confidence in the community it serves."