It sets the bench mark for a variety of healthcare organizations, including hospitals and homecare agencies. It also informs the general public and the healthcare community of an institution's compliance to accepted standards. Organizations are voluntarily inspected by the Joint Commission. NAH facilities are inspected every three years during a three-day visit by a Joint Commission survey team. The inspectors work both separately and as a team.
Nothing is off limits.
They will pull patient charts, interview staff at all levels, and crawl through attic space if they believe it is warranted. This includes procedures for patients, medications, performance improvement and staff competence. But inspections involve more than direct patient care. They also review safety codes, board leadership, even hospital budgets. They want to know if our building is safe.