The Joint Commission Certified Total Joint Program

Written by Stan Dysart, M.D., M.B.A., and Stephen Kim, M.D., co-chairs of the Total Joint Program at WellStar Kennestone Hospital 

No one needed to tell Jerry Niemeyer about the pain and disability associated with knee arthritis. An active individual, Jerry’s knee pain had progressed to the point that by the time he finished a round of golf, he could hardly get out of the cart.

Jerry had joined one of the 46 million Americans affected by arthritis. That number is expected to grow to at least 67 million by 2030. The number of individuals undergoing total hip or knee arthroplasty is expected to skyrocket as well.

The arthroplasty experience at WellStar Kennestone Hospital has mirrored this nationwide trend and necessitated the creation of a comprehensive Total Joint Replacement Program.

WellStar Cobb Hospital Celebrates New Joint Camp

A grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony was recently held for WellStar Cobb Hospital's new Joint Camp gym, located on the 4 South orthopedics campus at the Center for Joint Replacement. The Center will offer a group therapy “Joint Camp” twice a day for joint replacement patients. The healthy competition between patients decreases recovery time and creates an environment of camaraderie and support.

In June, the Cobb Center for Joint Replacement’s hip and knee programs were recertified for a second two-year term by The Joint Commission. Congratulations to WellStar Cobb Hospital’s Joint Replacement Program for being honored with The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval!

WellStar Kennestone Hospital’s Spine Surgery and Total Joint Replacement Programs Receive National Recognition

WellStar Health System is pleased to announce that WellStar Kennestone Hospital has been granted accreditation by the Joint Commission as a Primary Stroke Center.

The Joint Commission - Informed Discussion and Informed Consent

Informed consent is not merely a signed document. It is a process that considers patient needs and preference, compliance with laws and regulations, and patient education. WellStar physicians should always strive to engage the patient in discussions regarding their health, care plan and treatment. By utilizing the informed consent process, we can help patients make informed decisions regarding their care, including allowing the patient to refuse treatment or revoke consent.

Accreditation Readiness - The Use of Restraints

The Joint Commission Accreditation is required for a hospital to see federally-funded patients. Although The Joint Commission typically conducts surveys every three years, they can appear at any time. Our last survey was conducted more than a year ago.