HCA Fort Walton-Destin Hospital announced they have achieved a three-star rating from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS). This accolade recognizes the hospital’s performance in isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) procedures, solidifying its position among the nation’s elite institutions for open-heart surgery.

The three-star rating, the highest honor bestowed by STS, underscores HCA Fort Walton-Destin Hospital’s dedication to delivering exceptional patient care and outcomes. 

Zachary McCluskey, CEO of HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, said, “This recognition reaffirms our position among the nation’s top institutions for open-heart surgery and reflects the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines our hospital.”

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STS is renowned for its rigorous evaluation process, basing ratings on quality process measures and outcomes measures. 

The Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery program at the hospital has not only achieved the three-star rating but has also exhibited steady and continuous improvement in various key metrics, solidifying its standing as a leader in the field. Within the STS data, only 22% of participants providing isolated CABG procedures attained the three-star rating. HCA Fort Walton-Destin Hospital’s achievement places it among the top performers in the field of nearly 1,000 adult cardiac surgery database participants submitting analyzable files for June 30, 2023.

According to a release from the hospital, the cardiovascular team at HCA Fort Walton-Destin Hospital “is honored to contribute to the hospital’s legacy of excellence in cardiovascular care.” As the nation celebrates American Heart Month, this achievement further highlights the hospital’s commitment to advancing heart health.