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                           JeffNEWS, May 1, 1995
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JCAHO to Jefferson: You Passed!
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They say that good things come to those who wait. After nearly six
months since the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare
Organizations (JCAHO) paid the hospital a visit, the site evaluation
and survey results are in: Thomas Jefferson University Hospital
received full three-year accreditation. This seal of approval from the
nation's leading healthcare accrediting body reinforces that Jefferson
offers patients quality, compassionate and cost-effective healthcare
services.
 
"The JCAHO visit is a critical event, and many people spent a great
deal of time preparing for and participating in the survey, in
addition to performing their regular job responsibilities," says
Thomas J. Lewis, chief executive officer. "For your hard work and
commitment, you have my gratitude."
 
JCAHO paid particular attention to how the hospital and medical
staff improved service and care. Overall, the results were favorable;
however, the JCAHO report identified several areas the hospital needs
to work on, including the use of restraints. Under the accreditation
agreement, the hospital will provide the commission with periodic
written progress updates demonstrating the steps we're taking to
improve in these areas. Already a new policy on the use of restraints
is being implemented in the hospital.
 
Survey results are being published and are available for a small fee
to anybody who requests a copy. For more information, call 7902.


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Information provided by:  Editor, JeffNEWS
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