28th MDG strives to improve quality healthcare Published March 27, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Hrair H. Palyan 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- The 28th Medical Group opened its doors to a group of surveyors from the Accreditation Association of Ambulatory Health Care, March 12 to 14. The surveyors came to Ellsworth to conduct a three-day inspection designed to help the professionals of the 28th MDG identify areas where they can possibly improve and enhance the quality and effectiveness of healthcare they provide. Donald Blada, 28th MDG quality, risk management and accreditation director, and Ellsworth's healthcare specialist in accreditation and standards, said he had no doubt that the 28th MDG would meet and exceed the expectations of the surveyors. "The surveyors are actively involved in ambulatory healthcare settings and have extensive experience," explained Blada. "They were thorough and looked into everything - team performance, risk management and quality improvement initiatives." Benjamin Snyder, AAAHC chair surveyor, said a vital part of the inspection was gaining an overview of the 28th MDG. "We visited different clinics and offices to make sure their work environments were safe for both the patients and the staff," said Snyder, who added that the team was thrilled with the level of compliance Ellsworth demonstrated. "We also wanted to make sure patients were being provided with quality care." During the concluding conference, March 14, each surveyor provided a brief overview of their findings and recommendations. They announced that they will carefully review the information obtained during the survey before making an accreditation decision. Decisions are usually rendered within four to eight weeks. "Our success will signify that our facility is committed to providing high-quality care and demonstrate our commitment by meeting standards of practice," added Blada. "Our ongoing process of self evaluation, peer review, education and consultation is what helped us during this inspection. We look forward to finding out their final decision."