Delay in Lift of Ban Preventing Use of Messaging and Text Tools by Joint Commission

The Joint Commission (which accredits and certifies healthcare organizations and programs) announced in their newsletter that they are temporarily upholding their ban on clinicians’ use of messaging and text tools.

In 2011, the Joint Commission said that it was “not acceptable for physicians or licensed independent practitioners to text orders for patient care, treatment or services to the hospital or other healthcare settings” due to security concerns. However, in May of 2016, the Joint Commission announced that it plans to lift this ban due to advancements in the security of messaging technology. The removal of this ban is being delayed as the Joint Commission collaborates with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to ensure safe implementation and congruency with the Medicare Conditions of Participation.

In late September, the Joint Commission and CMS plan to release a “comprehensive series of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) documents” to assist with the implementation of secure text orders.

For further clarification regarding the above, please contact Adrienne Dresevic, Esq., at adresevic@thehlp.com, or Carey Kalmowitz, Esq., at ckalmowitz@thehlp.com, or alternatively, please reach them at our offices by calling (248) 996-8510 or (212) 734-0128.