Milwaukee City Wire

The Milwaukee VA Medical Center's endoscopy unit has been recognized for its commitment to quality and safety. This recognition was achieved by adhering to strict criteria, including ASGE guidelines on privileging, quality assurance, endoscope reprocessing, CDC infection control guidelines, and staff competency.

Katy Charlton, the Medical Procedures Unit program manager, expressed pride in this achievement. "We are incredibly proud of this recognition, which underscores the vital role our team plays in improving health outcomes and enhancing the veteran experience," she said. She emphasized that the award highlights the dedication of all team members involved in VA healthcare.

Charlton noted that the Milwaukee VA is one of four locations in Wisconsin to receive this recognition and one of only five VA medical centers nationwide. Since 2009, over 600 endoscopy units have been granted this honor.

The process for receiving such recognition involves a peer-reviewed application where units must demonstrate staff competence relative to their roles and adopt policies for ongoing performance assessment. They must also show an established infrastructure dedicated to infection control and prevention.

Dr. Kulwinder Dua, section chief for the gastrointestinal unit, praised his team's efforts: "Receiving this recognition is a great testimony to the dedication and hard work of our GI Endoscopy team members." He added that they provide care at or above national competency standards.

Christine Ogrezovich, assistant nurse manager for the Medical Procedures Unit, echoed these sentiments. "This accomplishment reflects the team's unwavering commitment to excellence," she stated. Ogrezovich highlighted teamwork as essential to their success by quoting Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”