Did you know the Joint Commission updated infection prevention and control requirements? In fact, a fully updated Infection Prevention and Control (IC) chapter will take effect on July 1, 2025 for all Joint Commission–accredited behavioral health and human services organizations. This revised chapter, which includes new and updated requirements, will replace the current IC standards.

This update is part of the ongoing IC chapter overhaul for each of the Joint Commission programs.  The goal is to provide organizations with a robust framework for their infection prevention and control activities while eliminating requirements that do not improve the accreditation process. These changes underscore the Joint Commission’s dedication to streamlining standards and providing more impactful and meaningful assessments of healthcare organizations.

The Updated Infection Prevention and Control Requirements Reduce the Number of Standards/EPs

• IC standards/EPs reduced from 40 to 7
• 7 new EPs 
• 4 of the 7 new EPs require documentation

New EPs

Summary of the Key Points: Infection Prevention and Control Requirements

IC.04.01.01: Establishing Infection Control Processes

• Objective: The organization must establish processes to prevent and control infections and communicable diseases.
• Key Elements:
  1. Policies and Procedures (New EP 3): Must align with applicable laws, evidence-based guidelines, and best practices, including standard precautions (e.g., hand hygiene, PPE use, environmental cleaning, injection safety, and reprocessing of reusable equipment). Documentation is required.
  2. Supplies (New EP 9): Ensure availability of necessary supplies such as hand sanitizers, soap, PPE, and cleaning materials to support infection prevention.

IC.06.01.01: Implementing Infection Control Activities

• Objective: The organization implements and maintains activities to prevent and control infections.
• Key Elements:
  1. Risk Identification: Identify risks annually or when significant changes occur, considering the care provided and public health guidance (e.g., risks from organisms like norovirus, influenza, or COVID-19). Documentation is required.
  2. Annual Review: Review and update identified risks and related plans as needed. Documentation is required.
  3. Prevention Activities: Implement standard precautions and other measures to address infection risks.
  4. Action Plans: Develop and update plans to address infection control issues, including non-compliance with policies. Evaluate and revise plans as necessary. Documentation is required.
  5. Linen Handling: Staff must handle, store, process, and transport linens in compliance with local or state regulations.

Resources:

• CDC’s Core Infection Prevention and Control Practices for Safe Healthcare Delivery in All Settings.
• TJC Reference Guide BHC

Barrins & Associates

Barrins & Associates can assist you to update your Infection Prevention & Control practices in accordance with the new and revised IC standards/EPs.  Contact us today to learn more about our services.

Barrins & Associates – “Diverse Perspectives, Comprehensive Solutions: Tailoring Standards to Your Organization’s Need