Contact Julie Mikkelson, 952-924-5065

EDINA, Minn. (January 23, 2008) -- Fairview Southdale Hospital today announced it has received the “Gold Seal of Approval™” for vascular care from the Joint Commission.

     Fairview Southdale Hospital is the second in the nation to receive the accreditation, and the only facility to be recognized in three categories: peripheral vascular disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm and carotid stenosis, all potentially life-threatening conditions.

     The accreditation and certification as a leading vascular center recognizes the organization’s skill in patient care and safety. Measures include patient outcomes, quality and performance improvement.

     “Our physicians and staff have worked hard to excel at patient outcomes. That said, our philosophy of care isn’t about national averages or meeting abstract goals. We are recognized as a national leader because we strive to do the best for each patient everyday,” says Brad Beard, president of Fairview Southdale Hospital and Clinics.

     Fairview Southdale Hospital is the home of the Minnesota Vascular Clinic, a partnership of Surgical Consultants, Suburban Radiology and the hospital.

     “The standards require us to continually evaluate the care we provide and look for ways to do it better,” says vascular surgeon and co-medical director of the Minnesota Vascular Clinic, Christopher Roland, M.D.

     To maintain certification, the hospital will undergo an on-site survey by the Joint Commission survey team every two years and will submit outcome data annually for review. An independent, not-for-profit organization, Joint Commission accredits and certifies more than 15,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States.

To learn more, click here or call 952-924-5176.