Medics of the North prepare for the Joint Commission Survey

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Joshua Newton
  • 319th Medical Operations Squadron

Although many people do not know, most public and private hospitals in the U.S., including the 319th Medical Group at Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, receive an external validation by the Joint Commission.

This August the 319 MDG will undergo its JC accreditation, validating that its patient care services are effectively managed and professionally administered.

The accreditation will evaluate every part of the organization and will lead to process improvement. The main activity during the JC is a survey. This survey differs from most in that an individual tracer follows, or traces, one patient throughout their care in the medical treatment facility. Compliance with standards is evaluated through interaction with the patient and all staff members of the patient care team.   

In preparation for the upcoming JC survey, Col. Therese Bohusch, 319 MDG commander, invited Col. Rodney Lewis, 319th Air Base Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Todd Krulcik, 319 ABW command chief, to participate in a patient tracer. Both Lewis and Krulcik assumed the role of patients while viewing the “ins and outs” of what a patient may encounter.

During the JC assessment, three surveyors will assess the group for accreditation. The 319 MDG will maintain normal business hours at the Medical Treatment Facility. Some patients may be asked for voluntary participation and will be briefed thoroughly about the patient tracer prior to any participation.     

The Medics of the North take pride in striving to be One Grand Forks’ Trusted Choice for Personalized Healthcare.  In order to fulfill our vision, we encourage feedback.  The Patient Advocacy office addresses concerns about access, quality and safety of patient care or any other patient concerns or complaints. Maj. Corby Heyne is the Patient Advocate:  DSN 362-4687 or commercial: (701) 747-4687.