Newnan, Ga. (February 15, 2013) – The Piedmont Newnan
Cardiovascular Imaging Center recently achieved accreditation in two
areas of echocardiography by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission
(IAC). Adult transthoracic and adult stress echocardiograms are now
accredited tests available at the imaging center.
“Heart care has always been among our top priorities at Piedmont Newnan,
and this achievement demonstrates that,” said Michael Bass, president
and CEO of Piedmont Newnan. “Our team has worked hard to make this
accreditation happen, and our patients can rest assured knowing we hold
ourselves to a higher standard and are constantly looking for ways to
improve the care we provide.”
Widely respected within the medical community, IAC accreditation means
the Piedmont Newnan Cardiovascular Imaging Center has undergone a
thorough review of its operational and technical components by a panel
of experts. The IAC grants accreditation only to facilities found to be
providing high quality patient care, in compliance with national
standards through a comprehensive application process including detailed
case study review.
“The Piedmont Newnan Cardiovascular Imaging Center staff is to be
commended for pursuing excellence in the field of echocardiography,”
said Beverly L. Gorman, director of accreditation for echocardiography
at the IAC. “By demonstrating substantial compliance to the requirements
outlined in the IAC Standards, the Piedmont Newnan Cardiovascular
Imaging Center displays a dedicated commitment to highest quality
patient care.”
Many facets contribute to an accurate diagnosis based on
Echocardiography testing, including: the skill of the Echocardiography
sonographer performing the examination; the type of equipment used; the
background and knowledge of the interpreting physician; and, the quality
assurance measures used.
An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to evaluate the heart muscle, heart
valves, and a patient’s risk for heart disease. Doctors may perform an
echocardiogram for a variety of reasons, including: to assess the
overall function of the heart; to determine the presence of many types
of heart disease; to follow the progress of heart valve disease over
time; and/or, to evaluate the effectiveness of medical or surgical
treatments.
The Piedmont Newnan Cardiovascular Imaging Center is now accredited in
adult transthoracic echocardiography, adult stress echocardiography,
myocardial perfusion imaging, and equilibrium radionuclide angiography.
For more information about Piedmont Newnan Cardiovascular Imaging
Center, visit piedmontnewnan.org.