The newly revised 2004 Joint Commission prepublication standards are now posted on the organization's Web site, allowing the opportunity to become familiar with the standards before the accreditation manuals are published in September. A crosswalk is also available to help users navigate between current and new requirements.

The standards become effective January 1, 2004, for the ambulatory care, behavioral healthcare, home care, hospital, laboratory, and long-term accreditation programs. To view the prepublication edition of the newly revised 2004 standards visit ww.jcaho.org/accredited+organizations/2004+standards.htm