By Mary Manning

Mon, Sep 8, 2008 (12:13 p.m.)

The Nevada Cancer Institute has earned the highest accreditation from The Joint Commission, a not-for-profit organization that accredits and certifies more than 15,000 health care organizations and programs across the country.

The commission's gold seal of approval was given to the institute after a voluntary three-day inspection and accreditation process.

"We sought accreditation for our organization because we want to demonstrate our commitment to patients' safety and quality care," said Heather Murren, NVCI chairman of the board and co-founder. "We view obtaining Joint Commission accreditation as another step toward achieving operational excellence.

"This is a significant milestone for not only Nevada Cancer Institute, but for our state and patients, who deserve the best oncology care available," Murren said.

The commission's visit included an on-site review of the quality and safety of patient care being provided and included all aspects of the institute's business, from record-keeping to delivery of care.

During the survey, it was found that the institute also met all applicable 2008 national patient safety goals, said Michael Kulczycki, executive director of the commission's ambulatory care accreditation program.

"Accreditation by the Joint Commission sets Nevada Cancer Institute apart," Kulczycki said. "Organizations awarded this gold seal of approval dedicate themselves to continuous operational improvement."