The Joint Commission introduced new antimicrobial stewardship requirements for accredited ambulatory healthcare organizations that prescribe antimicrobial medications.
Three details:
1. The Joint Commission said the new guidelines are meant to help decrease misuse of antimicrobial medications.
2. The new medication management standards include five elements of performance based on current recommendations. They include:
- Identifying a leader
- Establishing antimicrobial stewardship goals
- Adopting evidence-based practice guidelines
- Collecting, interpreting and reporting data related to antimicrobial stewardship
3. The new requirements go into effect Jan. 1, 2020.