KITTANNING — ACMH Hospital has been designated a UPMC Health Plan Hip and Knee Joint Replacement Surgery Center of Excellence.

This UPMC Health Plan program recognizes surgical facilities and orthopedic surgeons based on quality outcomes, low complication rates and patient experience for its members in need of joint replacement surgery.

“Hip and knee replacement surgery is a serious decision,” said Dr. James Backstrom, ACMH Hospital chief medical officer. “Patients who choose ACMH Hospital are choosing a facility that has demonstrated high quality performance and commitment to UPMC Health Plan’s high standards for patient-centered care, best outcomes and continuous quality improvement that achieves the best results and minimizes complications.”

Orthopedic surgeons and hospitals awarded the Center of Excellence designation passed a credentialing process. In this process, they must demonstrate the finest patient experience throughout the entire care process, from presurgical consultation to postsurgical recovery and return to a functional lifestyle, and a commitment to continuous quality improvement.

“Hip and knee joint replacement surgeries are among the most frequently performed orthopedic surgeries in the (United States), and it’s important that UPMC Health Plan ensures our members receive the highest quality of care,” said Dr. Amy Helwig, chief quality officer at UPMC Health Plan.

UPMC members looking for additional details are encouraged to call the number on the back of their member ID card.