Joint Commission launches health equity certification

The Joint Commission will launch a voluntary Health Care Equity Certification program July 1. The advanced certification will recognize hospitals and critical access hospitals that strive for excellence in providing equitable care, treatment and services. The certification requirements emphasize the structures and processes health care organizations need to decrease health care disparities in their patient populations; promote diversity, equity and inclusion for their staff; and address leadership, collaboration, data collection, provision of care and performance improvement. Leaders can learn more about promoting health equity at the Joint Commission’s Health Care Equity Certification Resource Center. (Joint Commission news release, 6/27/23)