Joint Commission FAQ: Expectations for Healthcare Industry Representatives

In an April 25, 2012, answer to a frequently asked question (FAQ) posted on the Joint Commission’s website, the accrediting agency outlines its expectations regarding the presence of nonlicensed, nonemployee individuals, including healthcare industry representatives, in healthcare organizations. The Joint Commission explains that accredited healthcare organizations need to be aware of who is entering the organization and their purpose at the organization (EC.02.01.01, EP 7). Additionally, accredited healthcare organization leaders need to make sure that they oversee operations and that responsibilities are assigned for administrative and clinical direction of programs, services, sites, and departments (LD.04.01.05, EPs 1 and 3), which includes processes for knowing who is entering the organization and their purpose.