Emergency Management Standards
As of July 1, 2022, the new and revised Emergency Management (EM) standards which apply to all Joint Commission–accredited hospitals and critical access hospitals, are in effect. The entire EM chapter has been restructured to provide a meaningful framework for a successful emergency management program. The changes in the EM chapter include a new numbering system, elimination of redundant requirements, and the addition of new requirements. A significant new requirement is the standard related to a continuity of operations plan. This restructuring resulted in a reduction in the number of elements of performance from 124 to 60. Our team of experts can help your hospital as it works to meet the new and revised Emergency Management standards.
A Preparedness Approach to Emergency Management
COVID-19 has provided an opportunity for organizations to test their resiliency and any emergency plans that may or may not have been in place. While the level of impact caused by the pandemic may vary from organization to organization, one thing is for certain — the threat of pandemics as well as other types of emergencies will continue well into the future. Having an all-hazards approach, evidence-based and tested plan in place is a critical for the future.
Joint Commission Resources' multidisciplinary group of experts, made up of engineers, physicians, infection preventionists, nurses, and former CMS surveyors, can assist your organization with its emergency management plan. Our team can complement each role in your Incident Command Center, bridge knowledge gaps between your Incident Command staff and hospital staff that did not actively participate in the Command Center, and use a collaborative approach to help bring roles and viewpoints across the organization together. With experts on both the clinical and environment of care sides, we can help your team navigate the difference between standard hospital terminology and terminology used by local, state, and federal emergency responders.
*The use of Joint Commission Resources consultative technical or advisory services is not necessary to obtain a Joint Commission Accreditation award, nor does it influence the granting of such awards.