Joint Commission International (JCI) Standards for Medication Management and Use (MMU): A Comprehensive Review and Analysis
Medication errors remain one of the leading causes of preventable harm in healthcare settings worldwide, contributing to significant morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. The Joint Commission International (JCI) Accreditation Standards for Hospitals provide a robust framework for safe medication management and use (MMU) to mitigate these risks. This paper reviews the evolution and key components of the MMU chapter across JCI editions, with emphasis on the 7th Edition (effective until December 31, 2024) and the newly implemented 8th Edition (effective January 1, 2025). It examines core standards related to planning, selection, storage, ordering, dispensing, administration, monitoring, and evaluation of medications. Particular attention is given to high-alert medications, look-alike/sound-alike (LASA) drugs, concentrated electrolytes, and integration with International Patient Safety Goals (IPSG). Evidence from global studies supports the efficacy of JCI-compliant systems in reducing errors by up to 50%. Tables summarize standards, measurable elements, and implementation strategies. Recommendations for hospitals transitioning to the 8th Edition are provided, emphasizing leadership oversight, staff training, and continuous quality improvement.
Medication safety, JCI accreditation, MMU standards, high-alert medications, patient safety, healthcare quality