The Joint Commission, which accredits hospitals across the country, eliminated 55 administrative positions last week in its Oakbrook Terrace central office, a spokesperson confirmed Tuesday.
The Joint Commission is an independent, nonprofit that evaluates health care organizations on the safety and effectiveness of their care. The Commission accredits and certifies more than 22,000 health care organizations and programs across the U.S.
“As we at The Joint Commission execute against our Strategic Plan, we have identified the need to improve operational efficiency and invest in skills needed for the future,” the Commission said in a statement Tuesday. “In tandem, we are taking proactive steps to ensure the continued strength of our organization in an evolving environment. As a result, we have made some structural changes to improve our operational efficiency.”
Though hospitals and other health care organizations are not required to be accredited by the Joint Commission, many hospitals maintain the accreditation to bolster their reputations and show they are committed to safety and quality care. About 70% of U.S. hospitals are accredited by the Commission, according to the Commission.
As part of the accreditation process, Joint Commission surveyors visit accredited organizations at least once every three years to evaluate how they’re complying with the Commission’s standards. The Commission has more than 250 accreditation standards for hospitals focusing on issues such as patients’ rights, infection control, medication management and prevention of medical errors. Hospitals pay to maintain their accreditation.
“Given The Joint Commission’s mission and critical role in ensuring the quality and safety of the nation’s hospitals and health systems, these moves were made in order to proactively position the organization for a strong and resilient future,” the Commission said of the changes in its statement.
