Memorial Medical Center earns Bariatric Surgery Recertification from The Joint Commission

LAS CRUCES, NM (February 21, 2025) - Memorial Medical Center has once again earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Bariatric Surgery Certification by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. Memorial is the only hospital in the Southwest U.S. with this prestigious designation and one of only five programs across the nation with this quality distinction. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

In addition to this certification, Memorial is an Accredited Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP), Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Distinction Center for Bariatrics, and Surgical Quality Partner with the American College of Surgeons.

“Our Bariatric Surgery program is renowned in our region and beyond for providing high quality care that leads to happier and healthier lifestyles for our patients,” said Dennis Knox, CEO of Memorial Medical Center. “Our entire team takes great pride in the fact that we are among an esteemed and select handful of hospitals with this certification.”

This Joint Commission certification recognizes healthcare organizations that provide clinical programs across the continuum of care for bariatric surgery. The certification evaluates how organizations use clinical outcomes and performance measures to identify opportunities to improve care, as well as to educate and prepare patients and their caregivers for discharge.

Memorial Medical Center underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review to achieve this certification. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with related certification standards. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

“Bariatric Surgery Certification recognizes health care organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “We commend Memorial Medical Center for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and to strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality and more compassionate care for individuals served.”