Hold Off on Credentialing Changes!!
There are two versions of the 2009 CMS changes made by the Joint Commission: the version that was emailed on January 6 and the version currently posted at the Joint Commission web site. (It took us a very long time to find the posted version: it’s NOT under standards, it’s under “What’s New.” Go figure!)
The bottom line is that the changes to MS.13.01.01 that were in the January 6 email are not on the web. Is the change to MS.13.01.01 in? Is it out? Is it under discussion? We’ve asked the Joint Commission but they have not yet responded.
In the meantime: do not make any changes to the way you credential or privilege Nighthawk and other remote diagnostic-only practitioners! Wait for clarity from Oakbrook Terrace.
About the Author: Mr. Pate serves as Vice President for Content and Development at The Greeley Company. He is a nationally recognized expert in patient flow and in hospital and health system regulation and accreditation with over 25 years experience in high profile problem solving.