Enhancing Global Healthcare Through Strategic Partnerships
The Joint Commission and the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ) have joined forces to create a strategic alliance aimed at enhancing healthcare quality and patient safety on a global scale.
A Shared Vision for Quality Healthcare
This partnership emerges from a mutual commitment to promoting safe, high-quality, and equitable healthcare. NAHQ has long been recognized as a leader in defining quality competencies in the healthcare sector, while The Joint Commission holds a prestigious reputation internationally as a standards-setting and accrediting body.
Key Areas of Transformation
Through this collaboration, both organizations aim to broaden the scope of healthcare excellence in several significant ways:
Universal Quality Competency Framework
The Joint Commission will support the adoption of NAHQ’s Healthcare Quality Competency Framework™, which articulates the comprehensive competencies necessary for effective quality management processes. While participation in this framework is encouraged, it will not be a mandatory criterion for Joint Commission accreditation or certification.
Education and Training Initiatives
NAHQ is distinguished by offering accredited certification in healthcare quality, specifically through its Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) certification. Both organizations are committed to ensuring their respective surveyors and reviewers will maintain this certification. Additionally, they will offer 25 scholarships annually to assist underfunded organizations in achieving CPHQ certification.
Joint Training Development
Together, they will develop top-notch training on vital healthcare topics and related products and services. NAHQ will introduce a set of micro-credentials that align with the eight domains of the Healthcare Quality Competency Framework, including a credential focused on Regulatory & Accreditation in partnership with The Joint Commission.
Mutual Endorsement of Standards
Moreover, NAHQ will recognize and endorse the accreditation and certification practices of The Joint Commission and Joint Commission International (JCI) as essential elements in assessing healthcare quality and safety globally.
Growing Stronger Together
This collaboration is not just about formal agreements; it signifies a deeper relationship where both organizations strive for a collective impact on global healthcare. Leaders like Dr. Jonathan B. Perlin, President and CEO of The Joint Commission, emphasize the importance of this synergy in driving the highest standards in healthcare delivery.
Independence and Collaboration
Importantly, both organizations will maintain their independence, but will foster collaboration through integrated leadership. Starting from the new year, Dr. Perlin will join NAHQ’s Board of Directors while Stephanie Mercado, NAHQ’s President and CEO, will take part in the board of Joint Commission Resources.
About The Joint Commission
The Joint Commission, established in 1951, is dedicated to improving healthcare quality across the United States. They focus on evaluating healthcare organizations to promote safe and effective care, accrediting over 23,000 facilities. As the largest standards-setting body, The Joint Commission remains committed to safety and quality in healthcare delivery.
About NAHQ
The National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ) has positioned itself as a catalyst for the advancement of quality and safety in healthcare. By setting industry standards and offering unparalleled education routes, NAHQ plays a crucial role in supporting over 150 organizations in their journey towards quality healthcare. The organization’s dedication to quality infrastructure development and professional growth reflects its significant impact in the healthcare sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Joint Commission and NAHQ alliance?
The alliance aims to enhance global healthcare quality and patient safety by uniting efforts to establish a universal quality competency framework and providing education and certification opportunities.
Will the Healthcare Quality Competency Framework be mandatory?
No, while The Joint Commission supports its adoption, it will not serve as a requirement for accreditation or certification.
How many scholarships will be offered for healthcare quality certification?
25 scholarships will be awarded annually to support CPHQ certification in underfunded organizations.
What kind of training will be provided through the alliance?
The alliance will offer training on critical healthcare topics and develop micro-credentials reflecting the domains of healthcare quality competency.
How will the organizations remain independent?
Both organizations will maintain their independence while fostering collaboration through shared leadership roles on their respective boards.
