UHS has earned re-certification for the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Core Certification in Spine Surgery by demonstrating continuous compliance with Joint Commission performance standards. The recognition places the program among a select group of hospitals nationwide recognized for excellence in spine care. In 2025, the UHS Spine Surgery Program became the first healthcare system in Upstate New York to achieve this designation.
The Joint Commission – an independent, non-profit organization that accredits and certifies healthcare organizations and programs in the United States – offers this certification in collaboration with the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
“Earning this re-certification underscores the commitment of the UHS Spine Surgery Program to maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and outcomes for our patients,” said Simone Betchen, MD, Chief of Neurosciences, UHS Neurosurgery. “At UHS, our multidisciplinary team works together to deliver evidence-based, comprehensive spine care designed to meet each patient’s individual goals and needs. It allows patients in the region to receive high-quality spine care that is nationally recognized, close to home”
The UHS Spine Surgery Program includes members of the UHS Neurosurgery team, advanced practice providers, healthcare providers, therapists and nurses. This program assists patients in identifying the most suitable treatment options, including non-operative spine care and pain management, physical medicine and rehabilitation and surgical care.
To learn more about the UHS Spine Surgery Program, click here.
The Gold Seal, presented to the UHS Spine Surgery Program, is a symbol of quality that reflects the healthcare organization’s commitment to providing safe, quality patient care and recognizes organizations that provide consistent communication and collaboration among all providers throughout the patient care process. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with healthcare experts and providers, measurement experts, and patients.