NAMES IN THE NEWS

Surgery Center of Fairbanks Receives National Recognition

FEBRUARY 2020

The Surgery Center of Fairbanks of Fairbanks, Alaska, received the Gold Seal of Approval and Certificate of Distinction from The Joint Commission, according to a release. The ASC got the certifications for two programs of surgical service—knee joint replacement and spinal surgery—based on a review of compliance with national standards, clinical guidelines and outcomes of care.

The surgery center is among fewer than 150 medical facilities nationwide and one of only two in Alaska that received the spine surgery distinction and is among fewer than 450 centers across the US to hold the knee joint replacement certification, according to the release.

“[The recognition] demonstrates the ongoing dedication of our clinical team to superior patient care," said Mark Wade, MD, president of The Surgery Center of Fairbanks, in the release. "Through the use of advanced technology, less invasive techniques and personalized treatment, we are able to more quickly return patients to an active and fulfilling life.”

The ASC also has received The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for ambulatory surgery and was the first surgery center or hospital in Alaska to receive the Competency & Credentialing Institute's CNOR Strong designation.

“The staff at The Surgery Center has demonstrated a continued and exceptional level of care for surgery patients,” said Kelli Hite McGee, administrator of the ASC, in the release. “... The Surgery Center provides the opportunity for residents in the Interior and throughout the state to receive the most advanced surgical procedures without requiring travel away from home.”