October 24, 2008

Dear Critical Access Hospital Colleague:

We are pleased to inform you that the Department of Health and Human Services’ Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has again granted The Joint Commission deeming authority for Critical Access Hospitals. 

The Joint Commission recognizes that Critical Access Hospitals are an important safety net, providing Medicare beneficiaries living in rural areas with the care that they need. We are proud to provide quality oversight for Critical Access Hospitals by collaborating with CMS.

CMS found that The Joint Commission’s quality and safety standards for critical access hospitals meet or exceed those established by the Medicare and Medicaid program. CMS’ notice of approval for Joint Commission deeming authority for Critical Access Hospitals is effective November 21, 2008 through November 21, 2011. CMS will evaluate, within 180 days, the changes The Joint Commission agreed to make on behalf of CMS. This probationary period allows time for CMS and The Joint Commission to work together to ensure that accreditation standards and Medicare Conditions of Participation related to distinct part units for rehabilitation and psychiatric services are compatible.

We appreciate your continuing commitment to accreditation and I welcome any suggestions about how The Joint Commission can strengthen its accreditation process. My e-mail address is mchassin@jointcommission.org. 

Sincerely yours,

Mark R. Chassin, M.D., M.P.P, M.P.H.
President