Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi announced June 1 that Mississippi Baptist Medical Center has been named a Blue Distinction Center for Knee and Hip Replacement. Blue Distinction® is a
national designation awarded by Blue Cross and Blue Shield Companies to hospitals that have
demonstrated expertise in delivering quality healthcare in areas of specialized services.
“Our Blue Distinction program recognizes hospitals and their physicians that achieve high levels of
performance in providing specialty care and outcomes for patients,” said Dr. Thomas Fenter,
Corporate Medical Advisor for Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi. To earn this designation,
Mississippi Baptist Medical Center was evaluated based on objective, evidence-based selection
criteria established with input from practicing physicians and medical organizations.
Mississippi Baptist Medical Center is the first hospital in Mississippi to receive the Blue Distinction
designation and is one of approximately 600 facilities nationwide deemed as Blue Distinction Centers
for Knee and Hip Replacement.
“This designation puts a high value on the commitment our physicians and clinicians have made to
the care of our patients,” said Mississippi Baptist Medical Center Chief Medical Officer Eric McVey,
M.D. “It also gives consumers the information they need to make smart decisions about the quality
and affordability of their medical care.”
In January 2011, Baptist opened its Joint Replacement Center, a dedicated joint replacement unit
focused on shortening recovery, improving outcomes and encouraging wellness. Along with
dedicated, specifically trained staff, a Joint Care Coordinator guides patients every step of the way
from admissions to discharge.
By focusing on quality, cost-effective healthcare through partnerships with Network Providers, Blue
Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi is continuing its commitment to a healthier Mississippi. Hospitals
and physicians who share this commitment demonstrate better overall quality of care and patient
outcomes. The Blue Distinction program recognizes the efforts of those hospitals and physicians.
“We are proud of our partnership with all of our network providers, and the opportunity to work with
them on quality programs,” said John Sewell, Director of Corporate Communications for Blue Cross
& Blue Shield of Mississippi. “Our goal is to work closely with all of our network hospitals and
physicians in promoting and recognizing quality initiatives statewide.”
For more information about Baptist’s Joint Replacement Program, visit www.mbhs.org/joints.
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