The Joint Commission proposes revisions to IC requirements for office-based surgery, ambulatory healthcare programs

Editor's Note

The Joint Commission is set to revise the Infection Prevention and Control (IC) chapter requirements for both office-based surgery (OBS) practices and ambulatory healthcare (AHC) organizations, effective July 1, 2025. These revisions aim to streamline the IC chapter, focusing on essential structures and processes that support quality and safety while aligning with relevant laws, regulations, and guidelines.

Key changes for OBS practices include:

• Full revision of the IC chapter
• Emphasis on a strong infection prevention and control program framework
• Alignment with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) “Core Infection Prevention and Control Practices for Safe Healthcare Delivery in All Settings.”

Key changes for AHC organizations include:

• Full revision of the IC chapter
• Focus on essential structures and processes for quality and safety
• Compliance with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services “Ambulatory Surgical Center Conditions for Coverage” and the “Core Infection Prevention and Control Practices for Safe Healthcare Delivery in All Settings.”

The Joint Commission urges those who want to participate to download and review the proposed IC chapter documents and submit feedback via the online survey, which takes approximately 30 to 35 minutes to complete. The comment period opened on June 4 and will end on July 16.