The Joint Commission
The Joint Commission accredits and certifies healthcare organizations. Its standards and survey processes are distinct from federal civil-rights laws and may change over time.
Language access and accreditation
Healthcare organizations should consult the current standards applicable to their accreditation program for requirements on communication, language services, and documentation. Do not assume that one federal rule automatically satisfies every accreditation standard or that a particular session record is sufficient evidence for a survey.
Organizations can prepare by reviewing their own policies, asking how preferred language and interpreter use are recorded, and making sure staff know where to find approved language services. Confirm current requirements with The Joint Commission and the organization’s compliance team.
Keep the record in context
A record of an interpreting session may support an organization’s documentation process, but it does not replace the medical record or establish accreditation compliance by itself. Confirm what the organization must document, who is responsible, and how the information is retained.
References
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