PARKERSBURG — Willows Center, a skilled nursing facility in Parkersburg, has been recognized as a 2023 recipient of the Silver Award in Achievement in Quality by the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living.

Sixty-three skilled nursing care centers, eight assisted living communities and one dual-skilled nursing-assisted living facility in 27 states this year earned a Silver Award, the second of three distinctions possible through the organization’s National Quality Award Program. The program recognizes organizations meeting rigorous standards of performance to further improve the lives of residents and staff in long term care.

“Through its strong foundation and commitment to quality, Willows Center has demonstrated effective approaches that help improve performance and health care outcomes for the patients and residents it serves,” said Melissa Powell, chief operating officer. “We are incredibly proud of Willows Center’s achievement.”

The National Quality Award Program has three progressive levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold. At the Silver level, recipients have met the criteria for the Bronze award and move on to evaluate and improve their processes, creating a systematic approach for all aspects of the organization that leads to positive outcomes and success.

Trained examiners review each application to determine if the center has met the demands of the criteria. Silver recipients can now move on to the final and most prestigious level of the program, the Gold Award for Excellence in Quality.

“We are delighted to honor Willows Center for being recognized at the Silver level,” said Cathy Bergland, National Quality Award board chair. “This recognition is a testament to their unwavering efforts in enhancing the lives of those entrusted to their care. Congratulations to Willows Center for their outstanding achievement. Keep striving for excellence.”

The awards will be presented during Delivering Solutions 23, the organization’s convention and expo Oct. 1-4 in Denver.

The Willows Center is a skilled nursing facility offering post-hospital, short-term rehabilitation as well as long-term and respite care.

The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living represents more than 14,000 non-profit and proprietary skilled nursing centers, assisted living communities, sub-acute centers and homes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.