Stony Brook University Hospital has once again been recognized as a Society for Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology (SOAP) Center of Excellence, earning the designation for a second time. This recognition is given to institutions and programs that demonstrate the highest standards in obstetric anesthesia care. The renewal of Stony Brook's status underscores its dedication to maintaining quality clinical practices and continued education in the field of obstetric anesthesiology. It is the only hospital in Suffolk County to receive such an honor.
“The anesthesia team plays an integral role in the day-to-day treatment of patients at Stony Brook University Hospital,” stated William A. Wertheim, MD, MBA, executive vice president of Stony Brook Medicine. “This recertification is a testament to their attentive efforts to provide the best quality of care for women and ensure that safety and excellence in patient care remains our top priority.”
Carol Gomes, chief executive officer of Stony Brook University Hospital, expressed the team's gratitude: “Our team is honored to be recognized for its ongoing work to keep the mothers and babies we care for safe. Women on Long Island should walk into our facility knowing they will receive compassionate care, collaborative decision-making, and comfort and privacy for both them and their newborn.”
Initially awarded in 2020, SBUH is among 13 institutions globally to have renewed the Center of Excellence designation. This honor is valid for four years. Established in 2018, the designation aims to elevate standards of obstetric anesthesia care both nationally and internationally.
The criteria for earning the Center of Excellence status encompass several areas such as staffing, equipment, protocols and policies, simulation and team training, and obstetric emergency management. Other criteria include cesarean delivery and labor analgesia care, implementation of recommendations and guidelines, as well as systems for quality assurance and patient follow-up. These criteria were established through expert consensus and are rooted in evidence-based recommendations.