Because of the number of improvements required, Danville Regional received a preliminary decision of "Preliminary Denial of Accreditation." This status begins a further review process between the hospital and the Joint Commission, in which all parties work together with the goal of satisfying standards in all areas.

"Danville Regional Medical Center is accredited today, and we have every intention to remain accredited," said Art Doloresco, Chief Executive Officer. "The hospital will continue to participate in the Medicare and other payor programs while it works to address the requirements for improvement. While we have considerable work to do, the Joint Commission was complimentary of the effort of our staff and physicians and our commitment to fulfill the mission of the Medical Center to provide excellent healthcare. We will work in partnership with the Joint Commission to uphold the high standards of safe, quality patient care."

Richard Smith, MD, chief of the medical staff, said the quality of care offered by Danville Regional is high. "As Chief of the Medical Staff and Medical Director of the Emergency Department, I am in constant contact with physicians and patients. Everyday I see examples of how employees and physicians are dedicated to patient care," Dr. Smith said.

"We are already working hard to make the improvements that are required," Doloresco said, noting that Danville Regional will submit either clarifying evidence to show that a standard or element of performance was being met at the time of the survey, or corrective evidence to demonstrate when DRMC came into compliance with a standard or element of performance.

"We are committed to steady and sure action to resolve the issues that need attention," Doloresco said. "Danville Regional will continue to work with the Joint Commission to ensure positive accreditation results from this process."

Doloresco was in communication March 13 with hospital board members, the medical executive committee and department directors to explain the results of the survey. "They have come together and are committed to making the improvements," he added.

The Joint Commission is a voluntary self-inspection program among hospitals and other healthcare organizations. In past years, inspections have taken place on a scheduled basis so that a hospital knew when to expect the visit. This year and in more recent survey years, all inspections have been unannounced.

The timing of the Danville Regional Joint Commission survey came about as the result of a complaint to the Joint Commission. The specific complaint was investigated by the Joint Commission surveyors and found to be without merit.

Danville Regional employs approximately 1,400 people. There are approximately 150 physicians on the medical staff.