WEST JEFFERSON MEDICAL CENTER GRANTED RENEWED RECOGNITION BY LEADING GASTROINTESTINAL MEDICAL SOCIETY FOR QUALITY AND SAFETY

New Orleans – The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE), a leading gastrointestinal medical society, has granted a three-year renewal recognition for quality and safety to the Endoscopy Unit at West Jefferson Medical Center (WJMC) in Marrero, Louisiana as part of its program dedicated to promoting quality in endoscopy across all practice settings in the United States. The WJMC Endoscopy Unit is one of more than 600 endoscopy units to receive this recognition since the program’s inception in 2009. 

The ASGE Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program honors endoscopy units that have demonstrated a commitment to patient safety and high-quality care by meeting rigorous criteria. These standards include adherence to ASGE guidelines on privileging and quality assurance, strict compliance with endoscope reprocessing protocols, alignment with CDC infection control guidelines, and ensuring ongoing competency among endoscopy staff. 

“We are honored to once again receive recognition from ASGE for our continued commitment to delivering safe, high-quality care,” said Elizabeth McIlwain, Clinical Director, Procedural & Outpatient Services at West Jefferson Medical Center. “Our team, led by Peggy Vollenweider is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards through ongoing education, adherence to best practices, and a steadfast focus on patient safety and excellent outcomes.” 

To earn this recognition, an endoscopy unit must complete a comprehensive peer-reviewed application process. This includes demonstrating the continued competence of all staff relative to their roles, implementing policies for ongoing performance evaluation tied to key quality indicators, and maintaining a robust infrastructure for infection control and prevention. The program applies to all settings where endoscopy is practiced, including hospital-based units, ambulatory surgery centers, and office-based environments. 

A key component of the program is an educational course titled, “Improving Quality and Safety in Your Endoscopy Unit,” which reviews essential guidelines and best practices. Units that successfully meet all criteria are awarded honoree status and receive the ASGE Certificate of Recognition of Quality in Endoscopy, valid for a renewable three-year period. 

“We are proud to acknowledge these endoscopy units through our Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program for their commitment to promoting the highest standards of quality and safety,” said Gerard Isenberg, MD, MBA, FASGE, chair of the ASGE Quality Assurance in Endoscopy Committee. “By ensuring infection control principles are followed, continually assessing staff competency, and monitoring patient satisfaction, ASGE-recognized units help strengthen public confidence in endoscopy, a life-saving technology.” 

ASGE and Quality 

ASGE is a leader in establishing standards of excellence in endoscopy through evidence-based safety guidelines and the education and training of its members. The Society reinforces the importance of quality and safety through ongoing member communications, professional development courses, and resources such as “Improving Quality and Safety in Your Endoscopy Unit.” 

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About West Jefferson Medical Center 

West Jefferson Medical Center (WJMC) is a 435-bed, full-service medical center offering comprehensive programs for preventive, emergency, acute and rehabilitative care. WJMC is a proud member of LCMC Health, an 8-hospital system serving the healthcare needs of the Gulf Coast region. 

About the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy 

Since its founding in 1941, the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) has been dedicated to advancing patient care and digestive health by promoting excellence and innovation in gastrointestinal endoscopy. With more than 16,000 members worldwide, ASGE sets the highest standards for endoscopic training and practice, fosters research, and serves as a leading resource for endoscopic education. Visit ASGE.org and ValueOfColonoscopy.org for more information.