JCAHO
Standard M.S.2.6

"JCAHO accepts delegation to existing external programs as a means to meeting the standard"
            Robert Wise, MD, JCAHO, Vice President of Standards, Division of Research

JCAHO Standard MS.2.6 requires hospital medical staffs to implement a process to identify and manage matters of individual physician health that is separate from the medical staff disciplinary function. To "manage matters" the standard has established "mechanisms" that each medical staff needs to include in their "process design."

Delegation to the Colorado Physician Health Program (CPHP) satisfies the criteria for hospitals meeting this standard. CPHP is comprised of experienced experts on physician health issues and is best qualified to provide the services necessary to address identified physician "illness" and "impairment."

CPHP provides services in all of areas outlined in the Standard with additional related services that are believed to benefit the physician, patients and the physician's workplace.

CPHP provides confidential services in all areas required in the standard

• Comprehensive clinical evaluation
• Treatment planning and referral
• Treatment monitoring and support
• Assessment of ability to practice safely
• Consultation to hospitals administrators, medical executive committees and medical staff offices
• Education presentations on physician health and related issues
• Documentation of health status necessary for hospital credentialing
• Neutrality, Objectivity and Confidentiality in the context of working with hospitals, partnerships, the Colorado Board of Medical Examiners, organizations, families and other systems with which the physician is involved.

For many reasons, CPHP is the best alternative for hospitals in the state of Colorado to meet the standard. Please feel free to call CPHP to discuss any needs or circumstances that may be unique to your facility.