Raleigh General Hospital Maintains National Standard of Excellence in Spine Surgery

Beckley, W.Va. (August 6, 2026) – Raleigh General Hospital again has earned Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® in Spine Surgery by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a healthcare organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

The certification recognizes healthcare organizations that provide clinical programs across the continuum of care for spine surgery The certification evaluates how organizations use clinical outcomes and performance measures to identify opportunities to improve care, as well as to educate and prepare patients and their caregivers for discharge.

Raleigh General underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review in April. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with related certification standards including program management, supporting self-management, and delivering and facilitating clinical care. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with healthcare experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

Raleigh General underwent a rigorous, onsite review in April. During the visit, a Joint Commission reviewer evaluated compliance with related certification standards including clinical information management, program management, supporting self-management, and delivering or facilitating clinical care. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with healthcare experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewer also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

“Spine Surgery Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing executive, Joint Commission. “We commend Raleigh General Hospital for using Joint Commission’s certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and to strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality and more compassionate care for individuals served.”

For Raleigh General leaders, the certification reflects years of investment in building a spine program centered on quality, safety and patient outcomes.

"Earning The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval in Spine Surgery is an achievement that reflects the dedication and expertise of our entire care team," said David Brash, CEO of Raleigh General Hospital. "From the operating room to rehabilitation and recovery, every member of our team is committed to providing safe, evidence-based care that delivers the best possible outcomes for our patients. We're proud to offer advanced spine surgery close to home, so patients throughout southern West Virginia can receive nationally recognized care without leaving their community."

Dr. Rajesh Patel, an orthopedic spine surgeon at Raleigh General, said the certification recognizes the coordinated approach required to provide exceptional spine care from diagnosis through recovery.

"Excellent spine care extends far beyond the operating room," Patel said. "It begins with a thorough evaluation, continues through surgery, and includes rehabilitation and follow-up to help patients return to the activities they enjoy. This certification recognizes the collaboration and commitment of our entire multidisciplinary team, and it reflects the high standard of care we strive to provide every day for our patients."