Free tool
Something serious just happened. Is it a sentinel event and what are we required to do?
Answer two or three questions. You’ll get the Joint Commission answer, your state’s reporting deadlines and a short list of what to do first.
1Where is your program licensed?
State reporting rules follow the state that licenses or certifies the program.
2What happened?
Pick the closest match. If more than one fits, pick the most serious.
Embed this tool on your site
Paste this code into any page on your website. The decision tree loads right on your page and stays current as we update state reporting rules and forms.
You’re welcome to link to or cite it. Please credit it as: Continued Compliance, “Sentinel Event Decision Tree,” blog.continuedcompliance.com. If you spot something out of date, email ant@continuedcompliance.com and we’ll check it against the source and correct it.
This tool summarizes the Joint Commission Sentinel Event Policy for Behavioral Health Care and Human Services (CAMBHC, Update 1, July 2026) and state licensing rules as verified in September 2026. It is general information, not legal, clinical or regulatory advice, and it does not replace your own policies, your accreditor or the state agency. When the clock is running and you’re unsure, report and ask. In an emergency, call 911 first. This tool is provided “as is” for general information only. Continued Compliance, Inc. makes no warranty that this information is accurate, complete or current, and is not liable for any decision made or action taken based on it. Using this tool does not create a consulting, attorney-client or other professional relationship. Rules change and vary by program type. Confirm requirements with the applicable state agency, your accreditor or qualified legal counsel before relying on them. Continued Compliance, Inc.