Surgical Associates is thrilled to announce five of its distinguished surgeons have been named as ‘Surgeons of Excellence in Hernia Surgery’ (SOEHS), a commendation that reflects the practice’s unwavering commitment to exceeding and upholding stringent quality benchmarks. The accreditation is awarded by the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), a globally recognized non-profit organization dedicated to patient safety. The SRC identifies facilities and surgeons that epitomize excellence through a steadfast commitment to delivering safe, effective, and evidence-based care. The standards required for accreditation are proven to enhance patient outcomes and minimize hospital stays.
“Earning the SOEHS accreditation is affirmation of our pledge to uphold unparalleled quality standards as hernia surgery continues to evolve, incorporating more intricate procedures and pioneering techniques for treating this condition,” noted Dr. Steven Weiland, President, Surgical Associates.
The following surgeons from Surgical Associates received the SOEHS recognition: Steven Weiland, M.D., F.A.C.S.; Jennine Larson, M.D., F.A.C.S.; Gary Sweet, Jr., M.D., F.A.C.S.; William Wilfley, M.D., F.A.C.S.; and Jeremy Olson, M.D.
In addition, Pine Ridge Surgery Center, where Surgical Associates completes many procedures, has also been named as a Center of Excellence in Hernia Surgery (COEHS).
To secure both the SOEHS and COEHS accreditations, Surgical Associates and Pine Ridge Surgery Center invited the SRC to perform an exhaustive review of surgical outcomes data, medical records, and internal procedures. The surgical center and surgeons also went through a comprehensive self-assessment and inspection process. The accreditation was not only evaluative, but also educational, offering best practice insights to further enhance the quality of care and services at Surgical Associates and Pine Ridge Surgery Center.
“Surgical Associates’ SOEHS-recognized surgeons have all pledged a commitment to quality when it comes to abdominal wall hernias, evidenced by the impressive numbers of surgeries completed as well as the continual professional development through specific CME (continuing medical education) credits and courses,” explained Dr. Gary Sweet.
Every SOEHS-accredited surgeon at Surgical Associates has performed at least 150 lifetime abdominal wall hernia surgeries and a minimum of 50 per year. Collectively, these seasoned surgeons performed more than 1,000 qualifying abdominal wall hernia surgeries last year using various surgical techniques, including laparoscopic, robotic, and open procedures.
Embracing a future of continual excellence, Surgical Associates will collaborate with Pine Ridge Surgery Center to conduct ongoing quality assessments and recertify every three years to preserve these esteemed designations and continue delivering patient outcomes of the highest level.
“The SOEHS accreditation is a testament to our dedication to quality throughout the entire patient journey, from diagnosis to surgery,” said Ellie Reineck, Director of General Surgery and Patient Experience for Surgical Associates. “We apply standardized approaches to each type of surgery, which results in fewer complications and ensures our patients receive the best possible experience as they undergo hernia surgery.”
About Surgical Associates | Elevé:
Surgical Associates is a multispecialty, independent surgical practice. General and acute care surgery, vascular surgery, breast surgery, and bariatric surgery are among the services offered at Surgical Associates. In 2019, the company expanded their practice by adding a Plastic Surgery and MedSpa division called Elevé. The organization now has two main locations in Wausau, 2400 Pine Ridge Blvd. and 2606 Stewart Ave., while also providing outreach clinic and surgical services to several Northcentral Wisconsin communities, including Adams, Antigo, Hurley, Medford, Merrill, Rhinelander, Stevens Point, and Wisconsin Rapids as well as Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Surgical Associates | Elevé is a proud member of Aspirus Network Inc. For more information, visit sawisconsin.com or eleveplasticsurgery.com.