One of Only Three Hospitals in Country with Certification; Effective Diabetes Management Reduces Complications
Unmanaged diabetes can transform routine hospital treatments into unnecessary medical challenges, dramatically increasing risks of complications. Recognizing these dangers and the need to manage a patient’s diabetes effectively, Westchester Medical Center developed a diabetes management program so comprehensive and effective that it earned national recognition.
DNV, a national hospital accreditation organization, recently bestowed Westchester Medical Center with its prestigious Advanced Glycemic Management Certification. This recognition is significant to the 37 million Americans with diabetes as it makes Westchester Medical Center one of just three hospitals in the entire United States to achieve this level of certification.
“Unmanaged blood glucose levels can impair wound healing, increase infection risks, and compromise patient outcomes, regardless of the medical condition” said Michael Goldberg, MD, Westchester Medical Center’s Section Chief of Endocrinology who co-manages the hospital’s multidisciplinary Glycemic Management Council. “This certification is a significant milestone for members of our community who entrust us with their care as it reinforces the quality of our diabetes management program. It’s also a reflection of our team of diabetes specialists and the systems we’ve put in place to ensure patients with diabetes receive the most effective treatments – even when diabetes isn’t the primary reason for their hospitalization.”
The Advanced Glycemic Management Certification affirms that Westchester Medical Center meets rigorous standards for the inpatient treatment of patients with diabetes, with a strong focus on safety, evidence-based care and coordinated team management.
Certification requirements spanned far beyond medical management, encompassing everything from insulin administration and blood glucose monitoring to dietary services, discharge planning, pharmacy coordination and provider education. As part of the preparation, Westchester Medical Center conducted a hospital-wide gap analysis, implemented new metrics and strengthened policies and procedures to ensure safe, consistent diabetes care across all departments.
For patients, this means greater peace of mind: If admitted for another condition, such as surgery, heart disease, or stroke, patients can trust that their diabetes will be managed by a highly coordinated team working in lockstep to reduce risks and support recovery. The certification reflects not only past achievements but also a commitment to continuous improvement through regular monitoring and annual reviews.