Columbus Hospice of Georgia and Alabama Achieves Top Recognition in Quality Connections Program
Columbus Hospice of Georgia and Alabama has earned four rings in the 2024 Quality Connections program from the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO). Quality Connections is the only national program designed to support hospice and palliative care providers in delivering high-quality, person-centered care.
The Quality Connections program is structured around four fundamental pillars, represented by four rings: Education, Application, Measurement, and Innovation. Participants are required to meet milestones within specific timeframes through activities such as quarterly data reporting and benchmarking, educational courses, case studies, and engagement on emerging issues. These activities promote high-quality care delivery and service excellence. Achievement in the program is determined by completing activities in each of the four foundational areas, culminating in the completion of all four rings.
By participating in the 2024 Quality Connections program, Columbus Hospice of Georgia and Alabama has achieved the highest level of recognition by closing all four rings. This accomplishment not only enhances its quality improvement program but also ensures the organization is up-to-date on the latest practices in serious illness and end-of-life care.
“At Columbus Hospice, our commitment to quality care extends beyond the clinical experience; it encompasses empathy, integrity, and respect for each individual and family we serve. We are privileged to make a meaningful difference within our community and in the lives of our patients and families,” said Wanda Geter, RN, BSN, CHPN, Quality Coordinator at Columbus Hospice of Georgia and Alabama.
Donna Morgan, President and CEO of Columbus Hospice of Georgia and Alabama, added, “Our organization has a long-standing reputation for exceeding regulatory requirements and providing person-centered, high-quality care. We continuously strive to improve and ensure our team members have the skills and resources needed to support patients in achieving their care goals. We are honored by this recognition and proud that our local community benefits from a nationally recognized non-profit hospice with 45 years of experience.”
Ben Marcantonio, NHPCO COO and interim CEO, remarked, “NHPCO is dedicated to helping hospice and palliative care providers deliver the best possible care to patients and their loved ones. Quality Connections was created to support the ongoing journey of excellence. The program continues to grow and expand its content and learning opportunities, including compliance, palliative care, equity, and inclusion, to better serve patients and communities across the continuum of serious illness and end-of-life care.”
