Latest news with #FirstHealth
Yahoo
31-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
FirstHealth achieves ISO 9001 certification
PINEHURST — FirstHealth of the Carolinas recently earned ISO 9001 certification from DNV, a globally recognized accrediting body. 'This achievement underscores FirstHealth's unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care across its network of hospitals and clinics,' a news release said. ISO 9001 is one of the most widely recognized quality management system standards, emphasizing principles such as strong customer focus, leadership involvement, process approach and continual improvement. By aligning with these principles, FirstHealth aims to enhance patient satisfaction and operational efficiency. The certification process involved a comprehensive evaluation of FirstHealth's quality management systems, including patient care protocols, administrative procedures and continuous improvement initiatives. This rigorous assessment ensures that the organization meets international standards for quality and safety. 'Achieving ISO 9001 certification reflects our organization's commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in patient care,' Cindy McDonald, chief quality officer for FirstHealth of the Carolinas, said. 'This milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who strive daily to uphold the highest standards in health care.'
Yahoo
13-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Local organizations honored with United Way Spirit of North Carolina Award
United Way of Lee County announced earlier this week that The City of Sanford and FirstHealth of the Carolinas have each been awarded a Spirit of North Carolina Award in the Sustainability Through Engagement category. These organizations have modeled a dedication to community service through their fundraising, volunteer and advocacy efforts in the year 2024, according to a release. United Way of North Carolina's annual Spirit of North Carolina Award celebrates individuals and organizations for their exemplary partnership demonstrated through fundraising and volunteer efforts, outstanding leadership and creative team building. Additionally, individuals who are champions of United Way are also celebrated. On March 11, United Way of North Carolina recognized 14 winners representing five local United Ways at the Central Region event. 'The Spirit of North Carolina Award shines a light on our incredible partners, who are supporting United Way's work and helping us achieve our goals,' Kendra Martin, executive director of United Way of Lee County, said. 'We extend our congratulations to all Spirit of North Carolina winners across the state, and especially to the City of Sanford and FirstHealth, who are making a huge impact in the lives of our neighbors here at home.' The City of Sanford was recognized for steady growth of its United Way campaign — which encourages employees to make an annual contribution. The city's support of community initiatives addressing homelessness and food insecurity was also commended. FirstHealth of the Carolinas was recognized for leadership's support of robust campaign planning and implementation, which led to a significant year-over-year increase in FirstHealth's campaign in Lee County. 'We are honored to have these outstanding organizations as key partners in our work,' Martin said. 'We appreciate their commitment to United Way of Lee County as we work toward a shared future where everyone in our community can thrive and reach their full potential.'
Yahoo
12-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Ambulance agreement with FirstHealth considered successful
On March 3, the Lee County commissioners gave an update on the 2024 metrics posted by the FirstHealth-Lee County EMS services. The agreement between the county and FirstHealth of the Carolinas Inc. was approved in 2021 and will expire in June 2026. Matthew Prestwood, vice president of operations for Moore Regional Hospital, presented the information. In 2024, FirstHealth and Lee County Emergency services crews responded to a total of 10,254 calls, with 6,696 patients transported primarily to Central Carolina Hospital, Prestwood said. The average response time — the time it takes from dispatch to arrival — was 6.92 minutes, which is under the goal of 8.59. 'They have consistently met this critical metric,' Prestwood said. 'All the response requirements have been met each month through the contract period.' Lee County, compared to other FirstHealth medical facilities in the area, rates near the top of the group. 'If you look at Lee County and compare it to other counties that we serve, you'll see the other counties we serve, you'll see that it's very close to the top here,' Prestwood said. Chatham County has 'slightly more transports, but Lee County's transports grew by about 300. 'One of the key metrics we also check is where are we taking the patients,' Prestwood said. 'Most of the patients continue going to Central Carolina. That is certainly consistent throughout the contract and where those folks are getting care.' FirstHealth has increased vehicles to continue posting below-average response times. That includes five Advanced Life Support ambulances, a quick response vehicle for the supervisor on duty and a full-time chief and director, Prestwood said. Since entering into the agreement, EMS base locations have gone from one to three 'strategically located throughout Lee County,' he said. The two added bases are Northview and Carolina Trace fire departments. 'Over the time of the contract, FirstHealth has made a significant investment in Lee County,' Prestwood said. Base pay rate for paramedics starts at $28 with the starting rate for EMTs now at $21 per hour. 'We've invested over $312,168 in employee wages across the FirstHealth-Lee system,' he said. 'The team has many successes.'
