Joint Commission reports on updated Survey Process Guide

Editor's Note

Joint Commission has posted its updated Survey Process Guides (SPGs) for hospitals and critical access hospitals on its website, according to the December 10 issue of Joint Commission Online. The SPGs, which are effective January 1, 2026, represent a major revision that replaces the Survey Activity Guide for the Hospital and Critical Access Hospital Accreditation programs, per Joint Commission.

Launched as part of the Accreditation 360 initiative, the SPG is described on Joint Commission’s website as a resource for both surveyors and organizations that outlines Joint Commission standards, corresponding Conditions of Participation, and specific survey activities. The SPG also incorporates the National Performance Goals (NPGs), formerly known as the National Patient Safety Goals.

Updates from the last published version of the SPGs include the following:

*New survey process for Joint Commission requirements not related to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Conditions of Participation
*Updated Performance Improvement Evaluation Tool
*New Emergency Management Discussion Tool
*Updated Primary Care Medical Home Certification Evaluation Guide
*New Medical Staff–Related Standards Compliance Evaluation Guides