What organization accredits most hospitals in the United States?

• A. TJC
• B. JCAHO
• C. CMS
• D. FDA

Answer: (A)

Accreditation of most hospitals in the United States is done by The Joint Commission. This independent nonprofit organization surveys hospitals to ensure they meet rigorous standards for patient safety, quality of care, infection control, medication management, patient rights, and governance. Hospitals pursue this accreditation because it demonstrates a commitment to quality and is often required for Medicare and Medicaid participation, which affects funding and eligibility. The Joint Commission has historically been known as JCAHO—the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations—the same body under a former name. The other options serve different roles: a federal agency that administers Medicare/Medicaid and sets participation rules, and the agency that regulates drugs and medical devices, not hospital accreditation.