CMS frequently uncovers common compliance issues during inspections of ambulatory surgery centers (ASC). These deficiencies involve lapses in infection control, patient safety concerns, and failures to fully adhere to CMS regulations.
As we leave 2024 behind us, accreditation professionals and leaders should look ahead to the new year and the challenges it will bring. But a new year also brings new possibilities and opportunities, which is why IAQ spoke with John R. Rosing, MHA, FACHE, a...
The Joint Commission (TJC), CMS, and other regulatory bodies keep accreditation and quality leaders on their toes every day. We’ve caught up with Kurt Patton, MS, RPh, founder and president emeritus of Patton Healthcare Consulting, on several subjects throughout the year that...
One of the most stressful things about a healthcare survey is that you don’t always know what surveyors will uncover. Is there a Condition of Participation that you’ve been noncompliant on for years? What if an emergency situation happens while the surveyors are in the building? How...
As we approach Thanksgiving and the winter holidays, the desire to bring cheer and decorate the healthcare environment is natural. However, a bit like Scrooge and the Grinch, infections and fire hazards don’t recognize holidays. Nor do The Joint Commission (TJC) and CMS let healthcare staff...
On January 1, 2025, the new workplace violence (WPV) prevention standards for home health agencies will go into effect for facilities accredited by The Joint Commission. Some of the requirements that will go into effect include creating a formal definition of WPV, outlining leadership oversight...
In May, the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) introduced its revised Long-Term Care Dialysis (LTCD) Certification, offering a new level of recognition for providers delivering dialysis services in long-term care and skilled nursing facilities. This certification is available to all...
This is part two of our interview with Kurt Patton, MS, RPH, founder of Patton Healthcare Consulting and a former director of accreditation services for The Joint Commission (TJC), on conducting mock or preparatory surveys.
Conducting mock surveys, also called preparatory surveys, is a great way to ready your staff and find problems before the real thing comes to your facility. But how do you run an effective preparatory survey—one that mimics the real deal with the time and resources your healthcare organization...
The Accreditation Commission for Health Care, Inc. (ACHC) announced the release of its revised manuals for Stroke Care Certification in May. These updates are designed to reflect the latest standards of practice, improve clarity, enhance flow, and reduce redundancy. The revisions also offer...