CHOC Children’s Hospital is the first hospital on the West Coast and only the second children’s hospital in the nation to receive the Apex Recognition Award. The distinction from the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) honors respiratory care departments from across the country for best practices and high-quality care.
“As a vital component of a well-rounded health care team, respiratory therapists work hard each day to deliver quality patient care,” says Thomas Kallstrom, MBA, RRT, FAARC, AARC executive director/CEO. “The specialized services and skills unique to respiratory care departments provide the necessary foundation for the total patient experience.”
The AARC is dedicated to supporting the respiratory care profession. The award program distinguishes organizations for their commitment to excellence in professional development, evidence-based care, patient safety, patient satisfaction and quality improvement. The Apex Recognition Award includes five categories for recognition: acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, home medical equipment (HME) companies, entry-level educational programs, and dedicated transport teams.
“CHOC is honored to be a recipient of the Apex Recognition Award. Our respiratory care therapists are invaluable members of the care team whose training, experience and expertise greatly enhance clinical outcomes. We are extremely proud of their commitment to our patients and their families, and to their profession,” shares Melanie Patterson, DNP, MHA, RN, vice president, patient care services and chief nursing officer, CHOC.
