Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery

We are thrilled to share some exciting news with all of you! As we shared recently, Valley achieved accreditation as a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery (COERS) from Surgical Review Corporation (SRC). On top of this, we take immense pride in the following physicians for their well-deserved recognition as Surgeons of Excellence:

• Greta Bernier, MD
• Jennifer Burzawa, MD
• Wayne Lau, MD
• Eric Schmit, MD
• Ron Swensen, MD
• Trisha Unger, MD
• Olga Valieva, MD
• Heather Wheeler, MD

This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to our commitment to not only ensuring optimal outcomes and safety, but also delivering an unrivaled patient experience. To achieve our Center of Excellence accreditation, we were evaluated based on rigorous and proven standards set by SRC. The accreditation requirements encompassed our physicians' surgical expertise and experience, the standardization of clinical pathways for robotic surgery patients, consultative services, equipment and instruments, patient education, and the care provided by our outstanding staff.

SRC is an independent, nonprofit patient safety organization. For over two decades, they have diligently accredited health care providers worldwide, including hospitals, freestanding outpatient facilities, surgeons and medical professionals. SRC accreditations are unique as they acknowledge both the facility and physicians who deliver exceptional patient care. This recognition reinforces our commitment to delivering the highest standard of care to our patients.

As we share this news with our community, you might encounter inquiries about what this accreditation entails. Here are some potential questions and answers to guide you:

Q: What does it mean to be an SRC Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery?
A: Being accredited as a Center of Excellence signifies that we have met rigorous criteria established by SRC for exceptional patient care in robotic surgery. Our dedication to quality and patient safety was thoroughly assessed and recognized.

Q: Why is it important that these physicians are Surgeons of Excellence?
A: In addition to our COERS accreditation, the recognition of these eight physicians as Surgeons of Excellence highlights the pivotal role they play in ensuring our patients receive the highest level of care and underscores our commitment to their well-being.

Q: What should patients know about this accreditation?
A: Patients can take comfort in knowing that we have received third-party verification for our exceptional patient care efforts. SRC's strict evaluation guidelines prioritize patient safety and continuous quality improvement.

Q: Why would patients prefer an accredited provider over one without accreditation?
A: SRC accreditation is a clear indicator to patients that we are committed to a higher standard of care. Studies have consistently shown that SRC-accredited providers achieve reduced risk of complications, faster recovery times and better outcomes.

This achievement is the result of a collective team effort. While we applaud these eight physicians for their recognition, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to each of you for your unwavering dedication to our patients.

Pictured above (left to right): Dr. Shahina Banthanavasi, CMO; Cheryl Watkins, VP Patient Care Services & Nursing Operations; Roz Parsons, Director of Perianesthesia Services & Endoscopy; Stephanie Lilje, Directory of Perioperative Services; Marlene Van Orden, Manager of PeriAnesthesia; Calvin Ledbetter, Nurse Manager General Surgery; Josh Aldrich, Robotics RN Coordinator; Cindy Vanderhoff, Senior Manager & Inspector, SRC; John Wagner, VP Perioperative, Imaging & Ancillary Services; Dr. Greta Bernier, Colorectal Surgeon, Medical Director Robotic Surgery; Dr. Eric Schmit, Ob/Gyn Surgeon; Dr. Olga Valieva, Ob/Gyn Surgeon; Dr. Jennifer Burzawa, Gynecologic Oncologist; Dr. Ron Swensen, Gynecologic Oncologist; Dr. Wayne Lau, General Surgeon; Dr. Trisha Unger, General Surgeon; Dr. Heather Wheeler, General Surgeon