What is the key difference in focus between The Joint Commission (TJC) and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in hospital regulatory oversight?

The key difference in focus between The Joint Commission (TJC) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in hospital regulatory oversight lies in their roles and authorities. The Joint Commission is a private, non-profit organization that accredits healthcare organizations based on a voluntary survey process. TJC's primary focus is on improving the quality and safety of patient care through establishing standards and evaluating organizational performance. CMS, on the other hand, is a federal government agency that administers the Medicare and Medicaid programs. CMS's primary focus is ensuring that hospitals meet specific Conditions of Participation (CoPs) to receive Medicare and Medicaid funding. While TJC standards often exceed CMS requirements, CMS has the authority to enforce CoPs and impose penalties, including fines and termination from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. TJC accreditation can provide deemed status, meaning hospitals accredited by TJC are presumed to meet CMS CoPs, but CMS retains the ultimate authority to oversee and enforce federal regulations. Therefore, TJC focuses on accreditation and quality improvement, while CMS focuses on regulatory compliance and payment.