Novant Health Charlotte Orthopedic Hospital earns Blue Distinction Center Designation for quality in knee and hip replacement surgeries

Blue Shield of North Carolina has designated Novant Health Charlotte Orthopedic Hospital as a Blue Distinction Center+ for Knee and Hip Replacement. Blue Distinction Centers are nationally recognized by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association as facilities that show a commitment to delivering high-quality patient safety and better health outcomes.

“At Novant Health, delivering cost efficient, timely, and safe expert care is something we strive for,” said Jason Bernd, president of Novant Health Charlotte Orthopedic Hospital. “Novant Health Charlotte Orthopedic Hospital is proud to be recognized by Blue Cross Blue Shield for delivering the quality and affordable care that our patients deserve.”

Facilities designated as Blue Distinction Centers+ for knee and hip replacement demonstrate expertise in total knee and total hip replacement surgeries, resulting in fewer patient complications and readmissions. Designated hospitals also must maintain national accreditation. In addition to meeting these quality thresholds, hospitals designated as Blue Distinction Centers+ are on average 20 percent more cost-efficient in an episode of care compared to other hospitals.

Knee and hip replacement procedures remain some of the most commonly performed, elective surgical procedures in the U.S., according to a 2018 study released by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. In 2014 there were 370,770 total hip replacements and 680,150 total knee replacements.

On Monday, May 4, Novant Health began performing non-time sensitive and non-emergent surgeries and procedures across the system. These appointments were paused on March 18 in response to increasing cases of COVID-19 and the need to protect patients and team members.

Enhanced safety measures were rolled out, including patient and team member screenings, required masking of patient-facing team members, and enhanced cleaning and disinfection processes.

For more information about the program and for a complete listing of designated facilities, visit www.bcbs.com/bluedistinction.