Willis Knighton Bossier is proud to be recognized by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana (Louisiana Blue)
with a Blue Distinction© Center (BDC) for Spine Surgery designation.
The program identifies hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers that demonstrate expertise in patient safety
and deliver better health outcomes. Quality assessments are based on objective measures developed from the
Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s (BCBSA) partnership with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
(AAOS).
The designations are a testament to the rigorous standards met by Willis Knighton Bossier. Designation
facilities provide high-quality care, with an average of 28% fewer readmissions and 29% fewer complications
within 90 days after spine surgery.
“This designation reflects our team’s dedication to clinical excellence and compassionate care. It’s an honor to
have our spine surgery program recognized on a national level,” said Jaf Fielder, president and CEO of Willis
Knighton Health. “Our patients can feel confident knowing they are receiving exceptional care in spine surgery
at Willis Knighton.”
Blue Distinction© Centers for Spine Surgery help consumers find quality spinal care, while also encouraging
healthcare professionals to improve the overall delivery of care nationwide.
Among other criteria, to receive a designation, facilities must:
- Have full accreditation from at least one national accrediting organization, as either a
hospital or ambulatory surgery center - Have low complication, mortality, and unplanned readmission rates within 90 days
after elective primary spine surgery - Have enhanced recovery after surgery processes and procedures in place for quality perioperative care
- Participate in Louisiana Blue’s BlueCard Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Network
By meeting these stringent criteria, Willis Knighton Bossier not only highlights its commitment to
high quality healthcare but also commits to remaining at the forefront of advancements in
spine surgery. - To further improve patient outcomes and inform treatment strategies, BCBSA utilized the
American Spine Registry—a joint effort with the American Association of Neurological
Surgeons and AAOS for evidence-based performance measures and patient reported
outcome measures. - Since 2005, the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program has helped patients find quality
specialty care—and, for those that meet the program’s cost criteria, at lower costs—in the
areas of bariatric surgery, cancer care, cardiac care, cellular immunotherapy, fertility care,
knee and hip replacement, maternity care, spine surgery, substance use treatment and quality of care they
deliver.