The Joint Commission's disease-specific care certification for destination therapy ventricular assist devices

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Healthcare Administration
• Medical Device Technology

Background:

• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services mandated Joint Commission certification for VAD destination therapy by March 27, 2009, for Medicare reimbursement.
• The Joint Commission released specific certification requirements on February 23, 2007, allowing hospitals time to prepare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the multidisciplinary project undertaken by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center's Artificial Heart Program to prepare for Joint Commission precertification.
• To achieve disease-specific care certification for destination therapy with ventricular assist devices.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary project was initiated and guided by the nurse coordinator.
• The program focused on meeting The Joint Commission's specific certification requirements for VAD destination therapy.
• Preparation included a precertification survey.

Main Results:

• The Presbyterian Hospital Artificial Heart Program successfully underwent preparation for the Joint Commission survey.
• The program was awarded The Joint Commission's device-specific certification for destination therapy with ventricular assist devices.
• Certification was achieved in June 2008, prior to the 2009 deadline.

Conclusions:

• Achieving Joint Commission certification is crucial for hospitals performing VAD destination therapy to ensure Medicare reimbursement.
• Proactive, multidisciplinary preparation is effective in meeting stringent certification requirements.