Source: NorthJersey.com
For their work in delivering extraordinary care for new mothers, four New Jersey Atlantic Health Systems medical centers have been nationally recognized with a Blue Distinction Centers Plus (BDC+) maternity care designation, a recognition of high-quality care that improves outcomes and reduces cost.
Morristown Medical Center (Morristown), Overlook Medical Center (Summit), Newton Medical Center (Newton) and Chilton Medical Center (Pompton Plains), all participate in Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey’s network, earned this designation by meeting the rigorous BDC+ quality selection criteria for maternity care as part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s Blue Distinction Specialty Care program. Along with being celebrated for their quality of care as BDC+ locations, medical centers were also recognized for the cost savings provided through quality care delivery.
Overall, cost of care episodes for vaginal and cesarean births at facilities are 20% less than those at non-BDC+ Distinction. The rates of episiotomies were 49% less those at Blue Distinction Centers (BDC and BDC+) than at those at non-Blue Distinction Centers (BDC and BDC+). In 2018, BDC/BDC+ facilities across the country cared for more than 40% of Blue Cross and Blue Shield commercially insured women giving birth.
In addition, the maternity centers at Morristown, Overlook, and Chilton, plus the medical center in Newton, have earned national recognition for caring for mothers and their babies, including the Baby-Friendly hospital designation by Baby-Friendly USA. It’s an accolade only given to those hospitals which implement successful breastfeeding practices and provide ongoing support for mothers and families.
“We are incredibly proud to have achieved this distinction at all four of our maternity centers,” said Dr. Diana Contreras, medical director of women’s health for Atlantic Health Systems. “Our team of providers and team members are dedicated to providing high-quality maternity care for our moms and their babies. This recognition shines a light on the work we’ve been doing for years to help expectant parents safely and comfortably welcome their new babies into the world.”
To learn more about the programs and for a complete listing of the designated providers, visit BCBS.com/BlueDistinction.