Parkland awarded Sustainable Healthcare Certification from The Joint Commission
Recognized for its prioritization of environmental sustainability
Parkland Health has earned The Joint Commission’s Sustainable Healthcare Certification (SHC) by prioritizing environmental sustainability through decarbonization efforts. The certification demonstrates Parkland’s achievement in establishing structure, rigor and accountability to accelerate these efforts.
The healthcare industry accounts for nearly 9% of the nation’s carbon emissions. In reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, organizations commit to cost-effective and efficient operations that seek to address climate change and the impacts that climate-related events can have on individuals.
Parkland underwent a virtual review on July 23, 2024. During the review, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with related certification standards including the organization’s contribution toward global sustainability, its baselines for measuring three sources of GHG emissions and its actionable plans for reducing them.
“Sustainable Healthcare Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety, quality of care and environmental sustainability,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “We commend Parkland for using The Joint Commission’s certification process to enact sustainable practices and utilize resources that positively benefit patients and the environment.”
“This milestone not only reflects our commitment to promoting sustainability in healthcare but also underscores our dedication to protecting the health of our most vulnerable patients. By prioritizing environmentally responsible practices, we are ensuring a healthier future for our community and the planet,” said Michael Wood, Parkland’s Senior Director of Facilities Support Services.
“Sustainable healthcare is essential in reducing environmental risks that disproportionately affect those who are already at a disadvantage. We look forward to continuing our efforts to create a safe, healthy and sustainable environment for all."
Parkland was recognized for its accomplishments in greenhouse gas reductions in the categories of energy, waste and desflurane. This award comes on the heels of comprehensive assessments of the health system’s practices, engaging cross-departmental teams and implementing innovative strategies that not only align with its commitment to environmental stewardship but also enhance the quality-of-care Parkland provides.
To help healthcare organizations achieve SHC, The Joint Commission has developed the Sustainable Healthcare Resource Center. The resource center provides practical strategies, tools, literature, videos and links.
For more information, please visit The Joint Commission website.
For more information about services available at Parkland, please visit www.parklandhealth.org.
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