The Joint Commission released a statement on March 16 that it will not be conducting surveys.
“In light of President Trump’s declaration of a national emergency regarding the COVID-19 virus and to assure we are not interfering with the work you are doing to prepare and care for your patients during this pandemic, The Joint Commission is suspending all regular surveying beginning Monday, March 16, 2020. In some cases, there may be a small number of surveys that will need to continue, such as high-risk situations. We will provide more details soon on what surveys are proceeding,” according to the statement signed by Mark Pelletier, RN, MS, Chief Operating Officer/Chief Nursing Executive, Accreditation and Certification Operations, The Joint Commission.
“At this time, we do not have an anticipated restart date. All postponed survey events will occur once we resume operations. If any organizations go past their accreditation due date, accreditation will be extended without disruption to their accreditation status. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has assured us that Medicare payment status also will not be affected,” the statement continues. “We know this is a very difficult time for all health care providers. We are here to provide expert advice and guidance. Please reach out to your account executive to assist. Thank you for the work you do every day to support safe and quality health care for all.”
