General Public
October 13, 2009

What is the Joint Commission


Our Mission

To continuously improve health care for the public, in collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating health care organizations and inspiring them to excel in providing safe and effective care of the highest quality and value.

Who We Are

The Joint Commission is an independent, not-for-profit organization, established more than 50 years ago.  We are governed by a board that includes physicians, nurses, and consumers.  The Joint Commission sets the standards by which health care quality is measured in America and around the world.

What We Do

The Joint Commission evaluates the quality and safety of care for more than 17,000 health care organizations.  To maintain and earn accreditation, organizations must have an extensive on-site review by a team of Joint Commission health care professionals, at least once every three years. The purpose of the review is to evaluate the organization's performance in areas that affect your care.  Accreditation may then be awarded based on how well the organizations met Joint Commission standards.
 
You can search for  a health care organization on the Quality Check section of the Joint Commission website. Joint Commission-accredited organizations are identified by the Gold Seal of Approval.  You can also call Joint Commission's  Customer Service Department directly at (630) 792-5800 for additional information.