The Joint Commission announces accreditation overhaul

Editor's Note

The Joint Commission has launched a major redesign of its healthcare accreditation and certification programs with Accreditation 360: The New Standard. According to a June 30 announcement, the new framework introduces outcome-focused performance tools, eliminates hundreds of requirements, and promises to made standards publicly accessible.

Reportedly supported by data analytics and benchmarking, Accreditation 360 aims to better align accreditation with current healthcare delivery. Two new tools are included: an updated Accreditation Manual that distinguishes CMS Conditions of Participation from other requirements—now grouped under 14 National Performance Goals (NPGs)—and a Continuous Engagement Model designed to provide ongoing support and maintain survey readiness.

The 14 NPGs are said to reflect widely accepted priorities aimed at preventing patient harm, improving outcomes, and enhancing safety across care settings. Meanwhile, the elimination of an additional 714 requirements from the Joint Commission’s hospital accreditation program builds on the 400 requirements removed in 2023. Beginning in July, standards will also be made available to the public in an online, searchable format.

The announcement also details a shift in certification strategy from evaluating structure and process to focusing on outcome measures. The National Quality Forum, a Joint Commission affiliate, will introduce new certifications beginning with four procedural categories: maternity care, hip and knee, spine, and cardiovascular.

To support shared learning, the Joint Commission also is launching the Survey Analysis For Evaluating STrengths (SAFEST) Program. This initiative will recognize high-performing safety practices at accredited organizations and will serve as the basis for a future shared database of quality insights.

“While standards are continually evaluated and updated for relevancy, the introduction of Accreditation 360 marks the most significant, comprehensive evolution of Joint Commission’s accreditation process since 1965,” the announcement reads, touting the overhaul as better supporting the realities of how care is delivered today.