• PR: Project REFRESH and Improving the Survey Experience (PDF) [REF: EOC, JCSC, LDR, SFT] Perspectives May 2016, Vol 36, #4, Pg 3 JCp1605_B2

Project REFRESH is a series of interrelated process improvement projects targeting various aspects of pre-survey, on-site survey, and post-survey activities in an effort to “simplify them, enhance their relevancy to accredited organizations, increase transparency within the accreditation process, and utilize innovative approaches and technology to enrich the customer experience.” To date these efforts include development of the SAFER Matrix (see…) and deletion of 225 duplicative, unnecessary and/or outdated EPS from 13 of 18 CAMH chapters (see EP Review Project: The Joint Commission Deletes 225 Hospital Requirements). 131 of the deletions are effective on 7/1/16. The remaining 94 EP were restraint and seclusion requirements that were only applied to hospitals NOT using accreditation for Medicare reimbursement purposes. Upon their deletion in January 17 TJC will be using the same Condition of Participation -related standards “for all organizations, regardless of deemed status.”
Tip: The list of deleted requirements is provided in this article available online at:  http://www.jointcommission.org/standards_information/prepublication_standards.aspx;