Program Director, Region 4 Ebola and Other Special Pathogens Treatment Center Emory University Brooks, Georgia
Throughout recent history of outbreaks and pandemics, hospital facilities have been at the epicenter of the response and needed to mobilize quickly. In keeping with the ongoing initiative to simplify requirements and provide more meaningful evaluations of hospitals, The Joint Commission updated the content and structure of the IC chapter and eliminated requirements that do not add value to accreditation surveys. After a review of the literature and consultation with a technical advisory panel, The Joint Commission introduced new Standard IC.07.01.01 and two new elements of performance (EPs) to enhance hospitals’ and critical access hospitals’ preparedness for high-consequence infectious diseases or special pathogens. Participants will discuss strategies to meet standards for the identify, isolate, inform, personal protective equipment, infection prevention and control measures, and training and competency requirements.