The hospital is now just the fifth in the nation to earn this designation for COPD treatment, a condition that affects nearly 16 million Americans

Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Orange has received The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for Advanced Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Certification after showing ongoing compliance with strict performance standards. This milestone positions it as the first hospital in California and only the fifth nationwide to gain this specialized certification.

The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval serves as a widely recognized symbol of quality that highlights a healthcare organization's dedication to safe and high-quality patient care.

Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COPD ranks among the top ten causes of death in the U.S., affecting nearly 16 million adults, many of whom remain unaware of their condition. Although no cure exists, the disease can be effectively managed through coordinated care teams and appropriate treatments.

"This certification highlights years of commitment, teamwork and innovation from our caregivers and physicians focused on enhancing outcomes for COPD patients," said Brian Helleland, Chief Executive of Providence St. Joseph Hospital. "As the first hospital in California to earn this honor, it reinforces our focus on clinical excellence and compassionate, evidence-based care for patients throughout their journey."

The Advanced COPD Certification examines how organizations apply clinical outcomes and performance metrics to spot improvement opportunities, while also preparing patients and caregivers for smooth transitions following discharge.

During an onsite evaluation, Joint Commission reviewers assessed Providence St. Joseph Hospital's adherence to certification standards, including formation of an interdisciplinary team that applies evidence-based practices and enhances care across the full healthcare spectrum. These standards are created with input from healthcare experts, providers, measurement specialists and patients.

"The Advanced Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Certification honors organizations dedicated to excellence and ongoing progress in patient safety and care quality," said Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing executive for The Joint Commission. "We recognize Providence St. Joseph Hospital, Orange for leveraging the certification process to minimize variation in clinical workflows and strengthen its program for safer, higher-quality and more compassionate care."

Providence St. Joseph Hospital dedicated more than two years to preparation, assembling physicians, respiratory therapists, nurses and support staff to adopt updated guidelines, monitor outcomes and refine processes aimed at patient safety and better care in both inpatient and outpatient environments.

COPD is a chronic lung condition that can greatly affect breathing and daily life. Advanced programs emphasize coordinated, evidence-based approaches to lower complications, boost results and empower patients to manage their health.

About Providence St. Joseph Hospital
Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Orange, California is a nationally recognized, 483-bed, not-for-profit Catholic hospital founded in 1929 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange. Fully accredited by The Joint Commission and designated as a Magnet hospital for nursing excellence, St. Joseph Hospital's reputation for clinical excellence and compassionate, family-centered care attracts patients from across the United States. St. Joseph Hospital is part of Providence, a health system operating 52 hospitals with a full range of services across Alaska, California, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas and Washington. For more information visit providence.org/stjoseph.

SOURCE Providence St. Joseph Hospital