Guest Column: On Delivering Quality Care to Vets

Susan M. Klinker, director of Bay Pines Healthcare Systems.

By Suzanne M. Klinker, Director, Bay Pines VA Healthcare System

As the State of Florida officially observes Healthcare Quality Week October 20-26, I recognize our dedicated VA health care professionals for the work they do to provide the very best health care to our nation’s heroes.

At Bay Pines, our dedicated employees – many of whom are Veterans themselves – come to work every day at our medical center located in Bay Pines and clinics across southwest Florida to deliver high quality health care that is personalized, proactive and patient-driven.  They pride themselves for the work they do not only in their own profession, but also for the personalized attention they are able to provide to each Veteran, each family, while honoring service and empowering health.

It is by no coincidence that our health care quality achievements are reflective of this unique and personalized model of health care delivery; a model recognized nationally as a best performer.

Just this year, our organization celebrated several successful accreditations.  Most notably, we were accredited by The Joint Commission in several program areas to include: Hospital, Behavioral Health, Long Term Care and Home Care.  The Joint Commission accreditation and certification is recognized nationwide as a true symbol of health care quality.  It is reflective of an organization’s commitment to delivering safe, high quality health care.  In addition, we received accreditation or certifications from the Long Term Care Institute, Food and Drug Administration, American Association of Blood Banks, Nuclear Regulatory Commission – National Health Physics Program, and American College of Radiology. 

At Bay Pines, as we celebrate Healthcare Quality Week, I extend personal appreciation to our dedicated professionals as they continue to deliver the very best health care our nation has to offer.   I would be remiss if I did not thank the men and women – our nation’s heroes – for whom we have the privilege and honor to serve.  Thank you for entrusting us with your health care, and most importantly, thank you for your courage, sacrifice, and service to this great nation.  You are the reason why we are all here and why we strive to provide the best care anywhere.