Charlene Kline, Concordia Lutheran Ministries vice president of skilled nursing and rehabilitation, accepts the inaugural Excellence in Quality Award from Secretary of Aging John Michael Hall on Thursday.

JEFFERSON TWP — Concordia Lutheran Ministries Thursday received an award for its quality of skilled nursing care from the state Department of Aging.

Secretary of Aging John Michael Hall presented Charlene Kline, Concordia vice president of skilled nursing and rehabilitation, with the inaugural Excellence in Quality Care Award.

Hall said the 12 facilities in the state honored represent less than two percent of the 631 skilled nursing facilities in the state that participate in the Medical Assistance program.

Mary Alice Wise is the daughter of a skilled nursing resident and president of the Family Council, which is an independent group of family members’ of Concordia residents.

She spoke of the quality of care and kindness shown at Concordia.

As part of the state recognition, Concordia received a $40,000 grant from the state Department of Aging and the Office of Long-Term Living for patients’ quality of life.