USP<800>: Protecting Healthcare Workers From Hazardous Drugs
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), approximately 8 million American healthcare workers are potentially exposed to hazardous drugs each year.
New Year, New Debate on Repealing ACA
With yesterday (Jan. 3) being the first day the new Republican-controlled Congress convenes, many senators and representatives are already looking into how to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
Ambulatory Surgery Centers Survey Process Changes
Starting January 1, 2017, two-thirds of ambulatory surgical centers (ASC) using the Medicare-deemed option may receive adjustments to their Joint Commission survey team structure and survey length.
HHS: New HAI Targets for 2020
This October, the Department for Health and Human Services (HHS) announced ambitious, new targets for reducing healthcare-associated infections (HAI) in acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, and ambulatory surgical centers.
The Joint Commission and HFAP Start Surveying to The 2012 Life Safety Code®
As of November 1, CMS, The Joint Commission, and HFAP will be surveying hospitals to the 2012 Life Safety Code® (LSC). The LSC was adopted by CMS in June, with some of the big changes required under the final rule including: Facilities located in buildings taller than 75 feet are required to install automatic sprinkler … Continued
GAO Asks HHS for Universally Aligned Quality Measure
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) sent a report on October 13 to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) urging for better alignment of healthcare quality measures.
CMS Launches New Physician Engagement Initiative
On October 13, CMS announced a push to improve physician engagement and their experience within the Medicare system. To achieve this goal, the agency is trying to reduce the reduce administrative burdens that physicians have to handle with the new Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA).
Joint Commission Launches Healthcare Violence Resource Center
The Joint Commission this month launched a digital resource center aimed at reducing workplace violence in healthcare settings.
CMS Gives $347M to Improve Patient Safety
In the last week of September, CMS gave $347 million to 16 different hospital associations, Quality Improvement Organizations (QIO), and health system organizations to continue efforts in reducing Medicare readmission and hospital-acquired conditions.
Lessons Learned In the Fallout of Virginia Mason’s Accreditation Struggles
A preliminary denial offers a stark reminder that even top-rated hospitals are not immune to survey deficiencies.