Starting this summer, rural health clinics seeking Medicare reimbursement can apply through a new accreditation program from The Joint Commission.
On May 7, The Joint Commission said it has received deeming authority from CMS for a new rural health clinic accreditation program, which is meant to support patient safety improvements by reducing variation and risks in the delivery of primary care and personal health services.
"With deeming authority from CMS, The Joint Commission will be able to work with rural health clinics across the country to help them establish a quality and safety framework for more than 60 million Americans living in rural areas," Jonathan Perlin, MD, PhD, president and CEO of the accrediting body, said in a news release.
To be eligible for the program, rural health clinics must meet requirements related to patient safety and quality, such as emergency preparedness, health information management, infection control, medication management and other operational areas.