Wednesday, Julie Havlak reported in Carolina Journal on the developing story on UNC accreditation denial and probation. According to Havlak:

The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations made its report on UNC Hospitals public Wednesday, Aug. 28, citing a laundry list of 44 performance issues that cost UNC its clean status of accreditation. 

The Joint Commission inspected UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill’s facilities in mid-July and placed it on probation after a preliminary denial of its accreditation. The Joint Commission is an independent, nonprofit accreditation organization that wields an almost quasi-governmental authority and certifies 80% of all new hospitals. 

Havlak reports on the issues that put UNC hospitals on probation:

Many of the performance issues have to do with building features — from risks with its utility systems to the reliability of its emergency power system. A handful deal with fire safety.

But some relate directly to patient health. The JC demanded better patient assessment — especially of patients’ risk of falling, possible abuse or neglect, and the needs of patients with substance abuse disorders. The JC also required better care before and after “high-risk” procedures.

According to Havlak, the report calls for numerous changes for UNC Hospitals to meet standards:

The report demands UNC Hospitals “reduce the risk for suicide,” tighten the safety of its medication management, better assess patients, better prevent hospital-acquired infections, and address concerns with its facility.

The probation has not lasted long, however. According to Havlak:

The Joint Commission accepted its Plans of Correction on Aug. 22, and UNC leadership believes commission surveyors will return to inspect the facility as soon as this week. 

Read the full story here. Read the previous two stories on this topic here and here.