How often must healthcare facilities be surveyed for compliance with CoP?

Healthcare facilities are required to be surveyed for compliance with the Conditions of Participation (CoP) at least every three years. This periodic survey is essential to ensure that facilities maintain the quality of care and comply with federal regulations, which are set to protect patient safety and promote effective healthcare delivery.

These surveys are conducted by state agencies or accrediting organizations to assess adherence to the standards laid out in the CoP. While facilities may be subject to additional surveys due to complaints or other triggering events, the baseline requirement is for a comprehensive survey every three years. This cycle allows for consistent oversight and the implementation of any necessary improvements over time, contributing to the overall quality of care in healthcare settings.

In contrast, annual or biennial surveys are not mandated under the CoP, and instead, the three-year cycle provides a balance between oversight and allowing facilities the opportunity to implement changes and improve their practices based on previous findings. Some facilities might opt for accreditation with organizations that may have more frequent survey requirements, but under the federal regulations specifically pertaining to CoP, the three-year timeline is the standard expectation.