Andrea Gillies, lead echocardiography sonographer at UPMC Chautauqua WCA, performs an echocardiogram, a type of ultrasound test that uses high-pitched sound waves that are sent through a device called a transducer. The device picks up echoes of the sound waves as they bounce off the different parts of the heart.

The UPMC Chautauqua WCA Cardiology Department was recently granted a maximum three-year term of accreditation by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission in the areas of Adult Transthoracic and Adult Stress Echocardiography.

“This distinction is our seal of approval that patients can be assured that we provide the highest level of patient care and quality in cardiac imaging and testing,” said Tammara LC Hodges, director, UPMC Chautauqua WCA Imaging Services. “I am so proud of our dedicated cardiologists and heart team for this successful accreditation and their passion for advancing cardiac care.”

Accreditation by IAC indicates that UPMC Chautauqua WCA Cardiology Department has undergone an intensive application and review process and found to be in compliance with the published Standards thus demonstrating a commitment to quality patient care in echocardiography. Comprised of a detailed self-evaluation followed by a thorough review by a panel of medical experts, the IAC accreditation process enables both the critical operational and technical components of the applicant facility to be assessed, including representative case studies and their corresponding final reports.

“By demonstrating substantial compliance to the requirements outlined in the IAC Standards, your program has demonstrated a commitment to quality patient care,” said Susan Jenson, RDCS, IAC senior clinical specialist-echocardiography.