Who is empowered to act for the medical staff between meetings, according to the Joint Commission?

The governing body is empowered to act for the medical staff between meetings, according to the Joint Commission. This authority is critical because the governing body is responsible for the overall management of the healthcare facility, which includes making decisions that could impact patient care and hospital operations in a timely manner. This structure ensures that the medical staff's needs and perspectives are represented, while also maintaining the facility's compliance with regulatory standards and overall governance.

Empowerment of the governing body allows for efficient decision-making, especially in circumstances that may require immediate attention or in cases of emergencies. This arrangement emphasizes a clear hierarchy and delineation of responsibilities within medical governance, thereby supporting effective leadership and accountability.