News Releases - 2008

February 26, 2008

West Park Earns Three-Year Accreditation:
Centre Lauded for 'Culture of Safety' it has Created

Toronto (February 26, 2008) – West Park Healthcare Centre has been granted a three-year, unconditional accreditation by the Canadian Council on Health Services Accreditation (CCHSA).

The CCHSA stated in its final report that West Park has created a 'culture of safety,’ something West Park President and CEO Anne-Marie Malek attributes to the staff, physicians and volunteers.

“The award and the fact there were no conditions reflects the extraordinary work that people at West Park accomplish every day, especially in the area of patient safety” said Malek. “We have done a great deal, including the implementation of various ‘Safer Healthcare Now’ initiatives, to create that culture of safety.”

The entire accreditation team, led by Vice President Programs and Chief Nurse Executive Margaret Beatty; and Quality & Risk Coordinator Paula Robinson, were integral to the success of the entire accreditation process, thanks to their enthusiasm, hard work and long hours.

CCHSA reviewers identified many strengths including the development of a joint strategic plan between the long term care home and the Centre, and a balanced scorecard for both the hospital and the home. Work on the development and implementation of the electronic patient record was also identified, as well as the Centre’s continued focus on building partnerships and alliances in the community.

West Park Healthcare Centre provides specialized rehabilitation, complex continuing care and long term care services, helping people overcome their health barriers to live life to the fullest after the onset of an illness or injury.

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For more information, please contact:

Vince Rice, Director, Public Relations
Phone: (416) 243-3730
Pager: (416) 372-2915
Email: vice.rice@westpark.org