Patient safety has always been central to the mission of The Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). With its new survey process, the JCAHO plans to bring even greater emphasis to the importance of patient safety while delivering patient care. Organizations will begin a process of self-evaluation and assessment, leading to written plans for improvement with specific timelines in areas of deficiency. JCAHO surveys will be unannounced, leading organizations to develop a state of perpetual survey preparedness. Tracer Methodology and front-line staff interviews will replace theoretical discussions and document review. The ultimate outcome will be the development of a patient-focused, patient-safe system of care. Are you prepared?

The program features interviews with 5 thought leaders: William W. Churchill, MS, RPh, Director of Pharmacy Services, Brigham and Women's Hospital; Karen Nelson, MPA, RN, Executive Director, Clinical Compliance and Risk Management, Brigham and Women's Hospital; Al Patterson, PharmD, Director, Department of Pharmacy, Children's Hospital Boston; Darryl Rich, PharmD, MBA, FASHP, Field Representative (Surveyor), JCAHO; Francine Schaefer, Accreditation Manager, Fairview Health Services.

Total Running Time: 26:17 minutes . Expiration Date: 05/08/07

This program qualifies for 1.0 contact hour (0.1 CEU) of continuing education credit.