MOOSIC, Pa., Oct. 5, 2026 — Geisinger Behavioral Health Center Northeast has been named the inaugural recipient of Joint Commission’s Care Team Award, a new national recognition established by Joint Commission, the independent, evidence-based standards-setting organization that sets the benchmark for healthcare quality through accreditation and certification.
Established this year, the Care Team Award recognizes interdisciplinary care teams that demonstrate outstanding collaboration, coordination and commitment to delivering exceptional patient-centered care. Honorees are recognized for their ability to work seamlessly across roles and disciplines to enhance the patient and family experience, achieve superior outcomes and foster cultures of trust, accountability and clinical excellence.
As the 2026 recipient, Geisinger Behavioral Health Center Northeast is recognized for fostering a culture of collaboration, shared accountability and continuous learning that places quality and patient experience at the center of every decision. Joint Commission’s award committee highlighted the team’s ability to translate that culture into action, creating an environment where colleagues across disciplines work together to identify opportunities, address challenges and continuously improve the care experience.
“This recognition is incredibly meaningful because it reflects who our team is and the commitment they bring every day,” said Kelly Ankenbrand, Market CEO of Geisinger Behavioral Health Centers. “I’m grateful to work alongside colleagues who care so deeply about the individuals we serve, support one another and never stop looking for ways to improve. This honor belongs to every member of the team.”
The award committee also highlighted the team’s commitment to operational excellence and its belief that excellence is not a destination, but a continuous pursuit of higher standards in care and patient experience.
“Our award honorees exemplify what healthcare can achieve when people and organizations are united by a commitment to excellence, innovation, collaboration and service of patients,” said Jonathan B. Perlin, MD, PhD, President and CEO of Joint Commission. “Their contributions have advanced safer, higher-quality care and inspired progress for patients and families across the U.S. and around the world. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and grateful for their ongoing dedication to shaping a stronger healthcare system and a better health future for all. Their accomplishments inspire us to think bigger, strive higher and accelerate progress across the care continuum.”
The award was presented during UNIFY™ 2026: Convening for Quality, Joint Commission’s annual conference dedicated to advancing healthcare quality, patient experience and organizational excellence.
“We are incredibly proud of the Geisinger Northeast team for earning Joint Commission’s first Care Team Award,” said Debbie Osteen, Chief Executive Officer of Acadia Healthcare. “Established to celebrate healthcare teams that exemplify the very best of patient-centered care, this award reflects the commitment, collaboration and shared purpose that distinguish this team and the care it provides.”
