Foresight and planning can reduce stress associated with a JCAHO survey. Important resources for the epidemiologist include the Comprehensive Accreditation Manual for Hospitals, recommendations from previous JCAHO surveys, and educational meetings. Communication with colleagues who have been reviewed recently is an invaluable means of preparing for future surveys. Finally, although JCAHO accreditation is important, it is equally important to realize that the primary purpose of quality improvement programs is to improve the structure, process, and outcome of care.