The Joint Commission International's (JCIA) Global Health Impact chapter sets a transformative path for healthcare organizations to prioritize sustainability, aligning with environmental goals and the urgent need to reduce carbon footprints. This new chapter, developed in collaboration with the International Hospital Federation's Geneva Sustainability Centre (GSC), marks a significant milestone in embedding sustainability into healthcare quality and patient safety frameworks.
Here's a concise look at the chapter's key standards that guide healthcare facilities toward becoming more sustainable and resilient.
Sustainability is no longer optional—it is essential. Hospitals worldwide face the dual responsibility of providing excellent care while mitigating their environmental impact. The GHI chapter provides an actionable framework across five pillars:
Governance
Tracking and Reporting
Employee Engagement
Procurement and Supply Chain
Use of Environmental Resources
As your partner in JCI accreditation , we recommend implementing the following core actions aligned with the GHI chapter:
Embed sustainability goals in strategic and operational plans
Appoint a Sustainability Officer or Committee with clear roles and annual evaluations.
Communicate sustainability objectives hospital-wide — through websites, mission statements, and employee JDs.
Run awareness campaigns for patients (posters, room signage).
Include sustainability in new hire orientation and annual competency-based staff training.
Collect staff suggestions via the Sustainability Committee and implement changes.
Develop energy and water reduction plans.
Perform regular carbon footprint audits and act on findings.
Present measurable outcomes to leadership (e.g., reduction in emissions, renewable energy use).
Evaluate suppliers based on sustainability credentials.
Prioritize reusable medical and non-medical supplies.
Update procurement policies to reflect sustainable practices.
Encourage local procurement
Conduct annual climate risk and carbon audits.
Conduct annual climate risk and carbon audits.
Integrate climate-related risks into emergency preparedness plans and drills.
With the GHI chapter, JCI has acknowledged that sustainability is central to quality healthcare. At Partners Consultants International, we are proud to serve as a resource center for hospitals navigating international accreditation, who have supported over 175 successful accreditations, we are here to guide hospitals in adopting these changes seamlessly.
Our sustainability-focused tools, training modules, and project templates are ready to support JCI-accredited institutions in aligning with the new expectations and becoming global leaders in green healthcare. Reach out to us to integrate sustainability into your accreditation journey.
By Admin | Posted on April 7, 2021
