statehospitalBISMARCK, N.D.(CSi) – The North Dakota State Hospital, which is part of the N.D. Department of Human Services, was recently named Top Performer on Key Quality Measures for its exemplary performance in providing evidence-based clinical measures that are shown to improve patient care for hospital-based inpatient psychiatric services.  This recognition was presented by the Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of health care organizations in America.

“This recognition validates the quality work and commitment of North Dakota State Hospital staff to provide person-centered care based on nationally recognized evidence-based clinical practices,” said Alex Schweitzer, superintendent of the hospital.  “We are honored to be recognized for this commitment to high quality care that contributes to better health outcomes for our patients.”

To be considered a Top Performer, a hospital has to achieve a performance rating of 95 percent or more for each accountability measure reported to the commission annually.  Each accountability measure represents an evidence-based practice.  Psychiatric hospital performance measures include appropriate admission screenings, patient safety practices, creating and implementing patient care plans, and appropriate usage of multiple anti-psychotic medications.

Out of 3,343 eligible hospitals that submitted accountability measures, the North Dakota State Hospital was one of 1,099 hospitals in the United States to earn the distinction of Top Performer on Key Quality Measures. 

As part of the honor, the State Hospital will be recognized in the Joint Commission’s Improving America’s Hospital’s annual report, and on the Joint Commission’s Quality Check website at www.qualitycheck.org.

The Joint Commission is the nation’s oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care.  They evaluate and accredit more than 19,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States.

The North Dakota State Hospital is the primary provider of inpatient mental health and addiction treatment services for the Devils Lake, Dickinson, Jamestown, and Williston regions (a 26-county area) because those regions do not have community hospitals that provide these inpatient services.

For information about the North Dakota State Hospital call 701-253-3964, ND Relay TTY 800-366-6888, or visit www.nd.gov/dhs/locations/statehospital/index.html.