What organization sets healthcare quality standards and protects patients and visitors?

The organization responsible for setting healthcare quality standards and protecting patients and visitors is The Joint Commission. This independent, non-profit organization evaluates and accredits healthcare organizations and programs in the United States. Its primary mission is to enhance the quality and safety of care provided to the public through the development of performance standards and conducting evaluations of healthcare organizations to ensure they meet those standards.

The Joint Commission's rigorous accreditation process helps healthcare facilities to maintain and improve their quality of care, subsequently striving to ensure a safe environment for both patients and visitors. Their standards cover various aspects of care, including patient rights, infection control, and medication safety, which are crucial for patient protection and healthcare quality.

The other organizations mentioned serve different purposes in the healthcare landscape. The National Institutes of Health focuses on medical research and funding for health studies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concentrate on public health, especially related to disease prevention and control. The World Health Organization is an international public health agency that addresses global health issues, but does not specifically accredit healthcare facilities.