JCAHO Survey Dec. 8-12
Scoring high ensures continued federal funding for HCHD

Mention the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, or as it’s commonly known, “JCAHO” or “the Joint Commission,” and a sense of urgency ensues. 

JCAHO’s survey of HCHD on Dec. 8-12 had staff at a feverish pitch preparing for months for the group’s triennial visit.    

“It’s like getting your house in order before guests arrive,” said Connie Ferguson, Director of Quality Management. “Survey preparation is a day-to-day process. One has to live the standard in order to comply.”  

In addition to the hospitals and health centers, surveyors examined the homeless and school-based programs. JCAHO reviewed policy and procedures in a number of areas, including patient rights, treatment and infection control. It annually evaluates more than 16,000 healthcare organizations across the country. In fact, the federal government uses its evaluations to determine the amount of Medicaid and Medicare funding given to systems like the Hospital District.   

“Our staff has been working diligently to ensure this survey is a success,” Ferguson said. “A target score of 92 has been set by senior administration. With that goal came a challenge for staff to meet or exceed the score.”  

HCHD originally scored an 89, later bumped up to 94 after problem areas were fixed, during its 2000 audit.

According to JCAHO, accreditation is a nationwide seal of approval. It indicates that a hospital system has met high performance standards and strives to:

•  Improve patient care.

• Demonstrate a commitment to safety and quality.

• Offer educational onsite survey experience.

• Support and enhance safety and quality improvement efforts.

• Strengthen and support recruitment and retention efforts.

• Enhance its image to the public, purchasers and payers.

During our survey, JCAHO representatives identified our strengths and weaknesses, as well as educated us on ways to improve.

“During our last survey, surveyors were very complimentary of the Community Health Program,” Ferguson said. “One surveyor stated that she was impressed with the efficiency and organization of both the Homeless and School-based programs considering the population served.”

In the past, to earn and maintain accreditation, we went through an on-site survey by a JCAHO survey team at least every three years, with laboratories surveyed every two years. However, this is the last full accreditation review HCHD will undergo. After this survey, JCAHO’s reviews will be more in-depth studies of specific areas.