Australian healthcare standards have today been enhanced with the publication of a new Australian Standard, AS 5182, Vendor credentialing for healthcare facilities.  This standard has been published following the committee (Technical Committee HE-033), comprising representatives of the healthcare sectors in Australia and New Zealand, reaching consensus.

“This standard will provide guidance to both companies, who need their staff to access certain areas of healthcare facilities in the most efficient way possible, as well as healthcare providers, who manage vendors accessing restricted areas of facilities,” said CEO of Standards Australia, Dr Bronwyn Evans. “The primary benefits from implementing the standard are that the health and safety of patients, residents and staff are appropriately safeguarded.”

“It is important to understand what “credentialing” means,” said Dr Evans. “In the context of this standard, it means the process of establishing the qualifications of vendor representatives and assessing their background and legitimacy. In particular, making sure they have the appropriate immunizations, background, education and training on the restricted areas they enter.”

“The broad range of stakeholders on the Technical Committee which developed this standard is indicative of an industry-wide desire to provide safe and secure healthcare facilities with patient care consistently front of mind,” said Mr Pat Callanan, Chair of Technical Committee HE-033. “The dedication of this Committee ensured the success of this standard in outlining an effective process for credentialing vendors while providing improved safety for patients and healthcare facilities.”

“The goal of the standard is to ensure patient health, safety and confidentiality, and alignment with existing statutes applicable to healthcare industry representatives,” said Dr Evans.  

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