The National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) has released the 2026 edition of the Standards for Health Services in Jails and Prisons, the leading framework for quality improvement and accreditation in correctional health care. Building on the 2018 editions, the new Standards introduce important enhancements—including expanded interpretive guidance and detailed documentation requirements—to help facilities meet today’s best practices, legal expectations, and the evolving needs of incarcerated populations.
Facilities seeking NCCHC accreditation must comply with the updated Standards beginning January 1, 2026.
For many correctional systems, navigating these updates can be complex. That’s where NCCHC Resources, the consulting arm of NCCHC, comes in. Our expert team helps correctional leaders understand, implement, and maintain compliance with the Standards—turning new requirements into opportunities for operational improvement.
How NCCHC Resources Supports Your Compliance Journey
- Needs Assessments and Gap Analyses
Our consultants provide independent assessments to evaluate where your facility stands against the 2026 Standards. Using historical performance indicators and current operational data, we identify strengths, uncover risks, and create actionable roadmaps for improvement. Relying on the new Supporting Survey Documentation requirements, our assessments help facilities build the right records and evidence well in advance of surveys.
- Training and Education
NCCHC Resources designs and delivers customized training programs to prepare custody and health care staff for the new Standards. With expanded interpretive guidance now included in each standard, our training ensures your teams fully understand compliance expectations and best practices. Training will build knowledge, confidence, and consistency across disciplines.
- Policy and Procedure Review and Revision
Updated and compliant policies and procedures are critical to meeting NCCHC Standards. Our consultants work directly with facilities to review and align documents with the latest requirements, including mental health screenings, safety protocols, and chronic disease management. With the 2026 Standards’ new focus on documentation, we help ensure your policies reflect both operational reality and survey readiness.
- Mock Surveys and Accreditation Preparation
For facilities seeking NCCHC accreditation, we conduct mock surveys that mirror the accreditation process. These exercises test your systems against the new Standards and highlight areas needing attention before the official survey. With our guidance, facilities gain clarity, avoid surprises, and feel confident in their ability to demonstrate compliance.
- Ongoing Monitoring and Vendor Oversight & Contract Compliance
For systems transitioning between health care vendors or seeking long-term support, NCCHC Resources provides ongoing monitoring of health care services. This ensures continuous compliance with the contract and NCCHC Standards, timely correction of deficiencies, and appropriate documentation.
Why Partner with NCCHC Resources?
- Expertise you can trust: Our consultants are seasoned correctional health professionals with deep knowledge of NCCHC Standards and accreditation.
- Tailored support: We design solutions based on your facility’s unique challenges, population, and resources.
- Proven results: Our clients consistently achieve improved survey outcomes, enhanced staff performance, and better patient care.
Get Ready for 2026
The release of the 2026 Jail and Prison Health Standards marks a significant step forward for correctional health care. With NCCHC Resources as your partner, you don’t have to navigate these changes alone. Whether you’re preparing for accreditation, revising policies, or training your team, we provide the tools and expertise to help you succeed.
Contact NCCHC Resources today to learn how we can support your compliance journey with the 2026 Standards.