October 18, 2002

For many MGHers, it may seem like it was just yesterday when the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) surveyors came to the MGH for their triennial inspection. But the hospital's survey is only a year away, and preparations already have begun throughout the hospital.

JCAHO is an organization that evaluates and accredits more than 17,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States. Although the JCAHO survey is voluntary, most hospitals invite the surveyors to their facilities because Medicare, Medicaid, many state agencies and third-party payors accept JCAHO accreditation as a prerequisite for participation.

In preparation for the JCAHO visit to the MGH, the hospital underwent a mock survey Oct. 7 and 8. The MGH contracted with the Greeley Company, a consulting firm that helps health care organizations prepare for JCAHO inspection, to help identify strengths and weaknesses in policies, procedures and direct patient care.

Greeley surveyors visited locations throughout the hospital such as Emergency Services, outpatient practices, health centers and several patient care units. Representatives from senior management, medical staff, Corporate Compliance, Patient Care Services and the Office of Quality and Safety were on hand to discuss issues with the surveyors. The mock survey is one of several activities that will assist employees and staff in assessing their readiness for the JCAHO survey.

For more information about preparations for the JCAHO survey at the MGH, call Maryanne Spicer, director of Corporate Compliance, at (617) 726-5109.

Above: Audrey Jasey, RN, of Ellison 16, left, with a Greeley surveyor