By Zach Patberg
Although the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organization could not confirm any results until an official decision is rendered in the next couple weeks or months, QHC officials said the surveyor told the hospital it was in full compliance in terms of patient safety and quality of care.”Our successful completion of the JCAHO survey represents a significant achievement and a symbol for the promising future of the new Queens Hospital Center,” QHC Executive Director Antonio D. Martin said in a statement. “I am so proud of our staff, which continues to strive for excellence and is always ready to meet an unforeseen challenge.”Pending an official passing grade, the hospital's full accreditation, which JCAHO approved in its last survey in December 2002, will remain intact for another three years.The survey, conducted from May 2 to May 6, looked at 250 standards in 45 performance areas ranging from medical, nursing and human resources management leadership to patients rights and education, infection control, staff competence and emergency preparedness.QHC officials were especially proud of the fact that the survey was conducted unannounced.”This is a tremendous achievement,” hospital spokeswoman Lata Singh-Vasconcellos said. “(It) basically means that we are adhering to joint commission standards at all times.”Commission spokeswoman Charlene Hill said the spontaneous visits are part of a pilot testing started last year. Since QHC volunteered for this survey, it will be exempt from the commission's traditional triennial checkups, which are announced, Hill said.Founded in 1951, JCAHO evaluates more than 15,000 health-care organizations throughout the country.Reach reporter Zach Patberg by e-mail at news@timesledger.com or by phone at 718-229-0300, Ext. 155.
