Center for Excellence in Rural Health-Hazard

Western Baptist’s CME program earns accreditation

WESTERN BAPTIST HOSPITAL REPORT

PADUCAH − Western Baptist Hospital’s continuing medical education program for physicians has been re-accredited with commendation by the Kentucky Medical Association.

Western Baptist is only the second hospital to receive accreditation with commendation, according to the KMA.

“It is very difficult to get accreditation with commendation,” said Pat Reiter, Western Baptist’s director of education and development. “To be accredited, an organization must meet 15 criteria/standards. To receive accreditation with commendation, you must meet 22 criteria. We met all 22 criteria.”

According to KMA, the CME program at Western Baptist has consistently developed education for physicians to improve quality standards. The program also has worked with local and regional groups to change patient outcomes through non-educational strategies.

Reiter said the CME program not only meets the general education needs of the hospital’s medical staff, but also serves physicians in smaller communities in the region.

“Physicians educate physicians toward a commitment of lifetime learning,” Reiter said. “Physicians are able to obtain [information about] important and up-to-date topics locally, and they have the opportunity to network with other physicians on topics of interest.”

Dr. Patrick Withrow, Western Baptist’s vice president and chief medical officer, said, “We work very hard to maintain a program with such a good reputation. Now the fruits of this labor are being recognized statewide.”