HELP AVAILABLE The Joint Commission's new certification program for total joint programs includes an onsite review.

The market for outpatient total hips and knees is booming, and facilities that don't want to be left behind can now take advantage of an advanced certification program from the Joint Commission for accredited ASCs and hospitals.

The certification program focuses on the "continuum of care and all transitions that occur within each phase of care" from the initial consultation to the follow-up visit with the surgeon.

The program, which includes an onsite review, emphasizes both education of, and shared decision-making with, patients, and consistent communication and collaboration among all providers.

The Joint Commission says it developed this program due to growth in the number of patients undergoing total hip or total knee replacement surgeries and the increased focus on clinical evidence-based patient care as it relates to pain management, quality of life issues faced by patients in need of joint replacement, functional limitations in mobility and the return to normal daily activities.

To be eligible, organizations must have Joint Commission hospital, critical access hospital or ambulatory care accreditation, and must meet the general eligibility requirements of Joint Commission disease-specific certification.

For more information, or to request an application, e-mail [email protected] or call 630-792-5291.

Jim Burger