What is a Joint Commission Accreditation for Nursing Homes?

The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals, now known just as the Joint Commission, was established in 1951 with an objective is to observe normal conditions for healthcare organizations and hospitals in the United States, evaluate performance, and address standards. Over 20,000 locations are evaluated by this independent, not-for-profit organization in order to evaluate patient care, medication handling, and infection control.

The Importance of a Joint Commission Accreditation

The Joint Commission Accreditation evaluates healthcare institutions, works to improve care and safety standards, publishes its findings, and allows public comments. Accreditation is required in most states to obtain a license or qualify for Medicaid reimbursements. Furthermore, accreditation ensures that best practices are being followed, keeps an organization competitive, and provides patients and their families with confidence in the organization’s procedures.

The Accreditation Process

Medical professionals, industry experts, and government officials set the survey and standards, then evaluate the standards of care and patient safety of the facility onsite every 24 to 36 months (depending on the type of hospital or lab).

Who They Evaluate

1. Senior living, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities
2. Psychiatric and rehabilitation facilities
3. General hospitals
4. Behavioral healthcare providers
5. Labs, pharmacies, and medical equipment suppliers

Overall, the Joint Commission provides insight into how health care institutions follow everyday standards and routines. To continue to improve health care, they continuously evaluate and share information about what happens every day in hospitals.Cypress Cove Care Center in Crystal River, Florida, is a Joint Commission Accredited skilled nursing community that has received a recent 3-year extension! To learn more, click here.