New and revised diagnostic standards go into effect July 1

After doing additional research, The Joint Commission plans to put new and revised diagnostic imaging elements of performance (EP) for hospitals, critical access hospitals, and ambulatory healthcare organizations into effect on July 1. The standards were previously planned to go into effect in July 2014, but the accreditor delayed the release to allow for more research to be conducted.

The new standards incorporate expert recommendations about areas to be evaluated to ensure the safe delivery of diagnostic imaging services. The Joint Commission has delayed implementation of its proposed requirement about minimum qualifications for technologists performing diagnostic computed tomography exams.

Read The Joint Commission’s release on the changes.