Bluegrass Care Navigators (BCN) has achieved recognition by earning four rings in the 2023 Quality Connections program of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO). BCN is the first to achieve this national recognition this year and the only hospice in Kentucky to be recognized. Quality Connections is the only national program designed to support hospice and palliative care provider delivery of high-quality, person-centered care. 

“This award recognizes and honors the work of our nurses, physicians, nurse practitioners, aides, chaplains, social workers and volunteers, as well as our team’s daily commitment to provide excellent, holistic care to our fellow Kentuckians,” Monica Couch, Chief Hospice Officer, said. “I commend my team for their continued excellence and their commitment to serve our communities with compassion, expertise and kindness.” 

Quality Connections is structured around four fundamental pillars represented by four rings: Education, Application, Measurement and Innovation. Quality Connections participants must achieve milestones within defined timeframes by taking part in activities such as quarterly data reporting and benchmarking, educational courses, case studies, and engagement on emerging issues; all of which serve to promote high-quality care delivery and service excellence. Achievement in the program is measured by completing activities within each of the four foundational areas, culminating in the closure of up to four rings. 

“We are committed to providing expert, compassionate care to those in need wherever they call home, whether that is in a private home, a nursing home or even a hospital,” said Bluegrass Care Navigators CEO Liz Fowler. “We are proud of this recognition and commend our team of clinicians and staff who work tirelessly every day to provide excellent care to Kentuckians in the 32 counties that we serve.” 

By taking part in the Quality Connections program in 2023, BCN has earned the highest achievement possible by closing four rings and has enhanced its quality improvement program, plus is up to date on the newest and best practices in serious illness and end-of-life care. 
 
“Achieving this recognition reflects BCN’s strong culture of quality and safety,” Joanne Luke, Director of Quality and Patient Safety Officer, said. “We continue to be committed to providing the highest quality of care for our patients and their families. The quality team at BCN appreciates the collaboration and support from administrative and clinical team members to ensure that we remain a leader in providing hospice care for those we serve.” 

“NHPCO is committed to helping hospice and palliative care providers deliver the best care possible to patients and their loved ones. Quality Connections was created to make the ongoing journey of excellence possible," said NHPCO COO and interim CEO Ben Marcantonio. “The Quality Connections program continues to grow and include broader content and learning opportunities like compliance, palliative care, equity and inclusion that serve our patients and communities across the continuum of serious illness and end-of-life care.”   

Learn more about BCN at bgcarenav.org.