The Joint Commission is considering a new primary care home designation as an add-on to its ambulatory care accreditation program and is soliciting input on the additional requirements.
The PCH designation may be of interest to those providing primary care and who want reimbursement from third-party payers who recognize organizations meeting PCH criteria. It would allow customers to get both an ambulatory care accreditation and a PCH designation through one on-site evaluation process. The PCH requirements would be only for those who want the option.
[See related story: Joint Commission launches primary care home option in 2011]
The proposed PCH requirements address the roles and functions of the patient, organization, primary care clinician and interdisciplinary team. They include:
- Leaders involve patients in performance improvement activities.
- The primary care clinician and the interdisciplinary team involve the patient in the development of his or her treatment plan.
- The primary care clinician and the interdisciplinary team communicate with the patient during the provision of care, treatment and services in a manner that meets the patient’s oral and written communication needs.
- The interdisciplinary team identifies the patient’s health literacy level.
- The clinical record includes the patient’s self-management goals and progress toward achieving those goals.
- The organization provides language interpreting and translation services.
- When a patient is referred to an external organization, the primary care clinician and the interdisciplinary team review and track the care provided to the patient.
- The organization uses health information technology to support performance improvement.
The Joint Commission is asking for input on its proposals. Those wishing to participate may read the proposed requirements on the organization’s website. Comments must be received by March 14.