Lexington Regional Health Center, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
LEXINGTON — Lexington Regional Health Center is proud to be recognized by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) with a Blue Distinction® Center (BDC) for Knee and Hip Replacement designation.
This program identifies hospitals and ambulatory care 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).
This designation is a testament to the rigorous standards met by Lexington Regional Health Center. Designated knee and hip replacement facilities deliver high-quality care, with an average of 21% fewer readmissions and 21% fewer complications within 90 days after knee and hip replacement surgery.
Patients treated at designated facilities benefit from the expertise and advanced practices that lead to improved recovery times and reduced complications making a significant difference in their overall health journey.
“We are honored to collaborate with providers like Lexington Regional Health Center,” said Dr. Thadeo Salido, senior medical director at BCBSNE. “Annually, we aim to strengthen our partnerships with providers who, in turn, offer exceptional care and treatment experiences for our members. Lexington Regional Health Center has invested considerable time and resources into developing specialized training, quality assurance measures and enhancements to improve health outcomes. This recognition underscores the commitment and hard work of our providers in meeting both our standards and the expectations of our members.”
BDCs for Knee and Hip Replacement help consumers find quality care, while also encouraging health care 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 total knee and hip replacements
• Have enhanced recovery after surgery processes and procedures in place for quality perioperative care
• Participate in BCBSNE’s BlueCard Preferred Provider Organization Network
By meeting these stringent criteria, Lexington Regional Health Center not only highlights its commitment to high quality health care but also commits to remaining at the forefront of advancements in knee and hip replacements.
Leading this effort is Dr. Jeffrey Schopp, a highly experienced orthopedic surgeon who visits Lexington Regional weekly. Dr. Schopp specializes in total knee, hip, and shoulder surgeries, bringing years of large health system experience to our community. His outcomes consistently meet or exceed national benchmarks.
“Excellent, specialized care no longer requires travel to larger cities,” said Dr. Schopp. “We’re proud to offer advanced orthopedic services right here in Dawson County.”
To further improve patient outcomes and inform treatment strategies, BCBSA utilized the AAOS and American Joint Replacement Registry for more evidence-based performance measures and patient reported outcome measures.
Since 2005, the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program has helped patients find quality specialty care 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 recovery.
