MEDIA CONTACT
Erin Maier, (531) 893-1359,
erin.maier@nebraska.gov
Lincoln, NE – The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is pleased to announce the Lincoln Regional Center (LRC) and Whitehall facilities completed a successful triennial survey conducted by The Joint Commission (TJC).
The LRC is a TJC accredited state psychiatric hospital in Lincoln for adult patients and is operated by DHHS. Whitehall offers treatment to adolescent males who have engaged in harmful behaviors and are determined eligible for state services at this facility.
The conclusion of the survey stated no major systematic issues threatened the accreditation or certification of either facility. Both facilities were found to be in substantial compliance with all state requirements and have evidenced quality patient care.
“This successful survey highlights our commitment to patient safety, compassionate care, quality of care, integration of training into staff performance, and working by our motto – helping people live better lives," said Mark LaBouchardiere, DHHS Director of Facilities. “Overall, the surveyors were complimentary of the environment of care, staff, and the services we provide across both campuses."
The survey examined a wide range of operational practices and treatment procedures across each state-run facility to ensure quality and consistency of care:
- Quality Patient Care
- Staff interactions and knowledge
- Training
- HR Personnel Files
- Grievances and Complaints
- Healthcare Disparities
- Environmental Services (Housekeeping)
- Environment of Care, Life Safety, Emergency Management
- Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement
- Dental Clinic
- Leadership
- Staffing Plan
- Workplace Violence Prevention Program
Additionally, TJC officially concluded the survey for all services surveyed under the Comprehensive Accreditation Manual for Hospitals. Part of TJC survey process is to evaluate both facilities for compliance with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Service (CMS) as well to ensure they meet the federal requirements to participate in Medicare/Medicaid programs. To maintain accreditation, TJC provides oversight for and evaluates the performance of LRC and Whitehall for defined quality standards to ensure compliance. The LRC maintains accreditation alongside more than 22,000 other healthcare organizations and programs across the United States.