Mt. Vernon, IL — SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital has once again been granted a three-year term of accreditation by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) in Echocardiography, specifically in the area of Adult Transthoracic Echocardiography, underscoring its ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality cardiac care.
Echocardiography plays a vital role in diagnosing heart disease and other serious conditions. As the leading cause of death in the United States, heart disease—along with stroke, the fourth leading cause—continues to impact millions of lives. According to the American Heart Association, more than 2,200 Americans die each day from cardiovascular disease—about one every 40 seconds.
IAC accreditation serves as a trusted “seal of approval” that patients can rely on, signaling consistent quality care and a commitment to continuous improvement.
“I’m incredibly proud of the team at Good Samaritan Hospital for building and sustaining such high-quality echocardiographic services right here in Southern Illinois,” said Amy Merten, RN - SSM Health Regional Manager Cardiology and Cardiac Rehab in Southern Illinois. “We’re fortunate to have such a skilled and dedicated group of heart care professionals who go above and beyond for patients across the region.”
Achieving IAC accreditation involves a comprehensive application and review process, including a detailed self-evaluation and an expert panel assessment of both operational and technical components. This includes the review of representative case studies and their final reports, ensuring that the hospital meets or exceeds national standards for echocardiographic care.
SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital remains dedicated to advancing cardiovascular health and providing exceptional care to the communities it serves.
