Willis Knighton Bossier is proud to be recognized by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana (Louisiana Blue) with a Blue Distinction© Center (BDC) for Spine Surgery designation.

The program identifies hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers that demonstrate expertise in patient safety and deliver better health outcomes. Quality assessments are based on objective measures developed from the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s (BCBSA) partnership with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

The designations are a testament to the rigorous standards met by Willis Knighton Bossier. Designation facilities provide high-quality care, with an average of 28% fewer readmissions and 29% fewer complications within 90 days after spine surgery.

“This designation reflects our team’s dedication to clinical excellence and compassionate care. It’s an honor to have our spine surgery program recognized on a national level,” said Jaf Fielder, president and CEO of Willis Knighton Health. “Our patients can feel confident knowing they are receiving exceptional care in spine surgery at Willis Knighton.”

Blue Distinction© Centers for Spine Surgery help consumers find quality spinal care, while also encouraging healthcare professionals to improve the overall delivery of care nationwide.

Among other criteria, to receive a designation, facilities must:

• Have full accreditation from at least one national accrediting organization, as either a hospital or ambulatory surgery center
• Have low complication, mortality, and unplanned readmission rates within 90 days after elective primary spine surgery
• Have enhanced recovery after surgery processes and procedures in place for quality perioperative care
• Participate in Louisiana Blue’s BlueCard Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Network

By meeting these stringent criteria, Willis Knighton Bossier not only highlights its commitment to high quality healthcare but also commits to remaining at the forefront of advancements in spine surgery.

To further improve patient outcomes and inform treatment strategies, BCBSA utilized the American Spine Registry—a joint effort with the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and AAOS for evidence-based performance measures and patient reported outcome measures.

Since 2005, the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program has helped patients find quality specialty care—and, for those that meet the program’s cost criteria, at lower costs—in the areas of bariatric surgery, cancer care, cardiac care, cellular immunotherapy, fertility care, knee and hip replacement, maternity care, spine surgery, substance use treatment and quality of care they deliver.

For more information about the program and for a complete listing of the designated providers, visit www.bcbs.com/bluedistinction.