Facilities shine during JCAHO survey

By Loren Barnes - Naval Hospital Jacksonville Public Affairs

Naval Hospital Jacksonville and its seven branch medical clinics, which includes Kings Bay's Naval Ambulatory Care Center, are accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.

JCAHO surveyed the naval hospital and clinics July 15-19. The Navy Medical Inspector General and Medical Occupational Safety and Health also inspected the hospital and clinics that same week. JCAHO, a private, non-profit organization, is the leading health care accrediting body in the world. Accreditation validates that a command is adhering to established JCAHO standards. The accreditation process at Naval Hospital Jacksonville included an on-site survey by a team of highly experienced health care professionals who evaluate compliance. Passing the survey confirms that the hospital and its clinics are in compliance with nationally established standards.

The joint JCAHO survey and IG inspections are now administered with just 30 days notice. Previously, hospitals were informed at least one year before the teams arrived on site. The survey teams evaluate the hospital and its clinics from all perspectives: administrative, human resources, quality of care, safe working conditions, patient safety, soundness of fiscal policy, record keeping, customer satisfaction, and more. The surveys are geared toward process and performance improvement, while offering facilities an opportunity to showcase strengths.

The excitement and expectation was palpable when the survey team leaders to present their preliminary findings. A final written report will be completed by JCAHO within 30 days. It was announced that the hospital’s preliminary score was 94 percent, a five point improvement from the last JCAHO survey two years ago. As a matter of process, the preliminary score is subject to review by the Joint Commission staff prior to awarding the final grade. A final written report will be completed by JCAHO within 30 days.

At Naval Hospital Jacksonville and its clinics, “Simply The Best” is more than just a slogan – it reflects highquality, family-centered care delivered by tested professionals.