Conemaugh Health System Earns Advanced Certification for Hip and Knee Replacement from The Joint Commission

Conemaugh Health System has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Advanced Total Hip and Knee Replacement Certification, recognizing the health system’s commitment to providing safe, high-quality orthopedic care for patients undergoing joint replacement procedures.

The certification, offered in collaboration with the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, evaluates the full continuum of care for patients receiving total hip and knee replacements—from the initial orthopedic consultation and pre-surgical evaluation through surgery, hospitalization or ambulatory surgical center admission, rehabilitation, and follow-up visits with the orthopedic surgeon.

To earn the designation, Conemaugh Health System underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review conducted by a Joint Commission expert who evaluated the program’s compliance with advanced certification standards. The review included assessments of program management, clinical care delivery, patient education, and self-management support, as well as direct observations and interviews with staff and leadership. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with healthcare experts, providers, measurement specialists, and patients.

This is the ninth consecutive year which Conemaugh Health System has earned the Gold Seal of Approval Advanced Certification for Total Hip & Knee Replacement. Conemaugh remains the only hospital between Pittsburgh and Hershey as the only program to hold the certification through The Joint Commission.

“Advanced Total Hip and Knee Replacement Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” said Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer for The Joint Commission. “We commend Conemaugh Health System for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality and more compassionate care for the individuals it serves.”

Leaders at Conemaugh say the recognition reflects the dedication of the orthopedic team and the coordinated care patients receive before, during, and after joint replacement surgery.

“Earning this advanced certification demonstrates our team’s commitment to delivering exceptional orthopedic care and achieving the best possible outcomes for our patients,” said Richard Goodrich, DO, orthopedic surgeon with Conemaugh Physician Group – Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. “From evaluation and surgical expertise to rehabilitation and recovery, our multidisciplinary approach ensures patients receive comprehensive support at every stage of their healthcare journey.”

This recognition highlights Conemaugh Health System’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, specialized orthopedic care close to home for patients across the region. Through advanced surgical expertise, coordinated care, and comprehensive rehabilitation services, the health system continues to help patients regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to the activities they enjoy.

For more information about orthopedic services at Conemaugh Health System, visit Conemaugh.org/Orthopedics.