TJC & CMS News Blog
Information for BH Organizations
To read articles written prior to January 2015, please view our Newsletter Archive.
Updates to TJC’s Definition of Sentinel Events Involving Suicide
Joint Commission has made significant changes to their definition of a sentinel event related to suicide. These changes, set to take effect on January 1, 2024, have surprised organizations because TJC typically provides a generous six-month notice for alterations to...
Joint Commission Accreditation: New Eligibility Requirements for Opioid Treatment Programs
Winter is here! Are you aware that The Joint Commission has recently revised its accreditation eligibility criteria for opioid treatment programs (OTPs)? This update holds significant importance for both Hospitals and Behavioral Health Care organizations with OTP...
Tackling the Challenge of Non-Attendance at Group Therapy
Non-attendance of treatment groups is a common phenomenon in mental health care settings, and it can have negative consequences for both the individuals served and the service provider. According to some studies, non-attendance can lead to financial costs for the...
Joint Commission Insight: Addressing Top Physical Environment Challenges in Behavioral Health Care Organizations
In the realm of Behavioral Health Care (BHC) organizations, creating a safe and supportive environment is paramount. However, several physical environment challenges pose challenges that demand careful attention and mitigation strategies to ensure the well-being of...
Joint Commission Accreditation and Reducing Restraints and Seclusion in Behavioral Health Care Settings
The Joint Commission places a strong emphasis on reducing the use of restraints and seclusion in psychiatric hospitals and behavioral health care organizations. These settings play a vital role in offering care and support to individuals facing behavioral health...
Healing with Empathy: The Power of Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Organizations
In the realm of behavioral health, where individuals grapple with the complex interplay of mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and traumatic experiences, a compassionate approach can make all the difference. Trauma-informed care is a guiding principle...
CMS Updates Accreditation Processes: What Behavioral Healthcare Organizations Need to Know
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently issued crucial updates regarding accreditation processes for healthcare organizations. These updates, detailed in a memo dated September 15, 2023, have far-reaching implications for how Hospitals and...
Five Surprising Joint Commission Standards Frequently Scored High-Risk
You may know that the TJC National Patient Safety Goal 15.01.01, Reduce the Risk of Suicide, EPs 1-5 are the five most cited standard and elements of performance in the Behavioral Health Care Standards Manual (CAMBHC). However, you may not know the next 5 most cited...
The Joint Commission Standards: What you need to know about Workplace Violence
Did you know that the Joint Commission continues to place an emphasis on workplace violence prevention and response? TJC has several standards that support the development of a workplace violence program based on an annual worksite analysis. In fact, it is the...
New CMS Memo Impacts Joint Commission Procedures
In a recent email, The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) released an important memo that outlines updates and guidelines for all Accrediting Organizations (AO). The memo, effective from July 14, 2023, includes several important points that will impact TJC’s...