The ABCs of CARF Accreditation
Summary: Let’s discuss the ABCs of CARF accreditation. Who is CARF? Who is eligible for CARF accreditation? Why CARF? What are the benefits of CARF accreditation? How is accreditation achieved?
Who Is CARF?
CARF is a non-profit, independent organization which specializes in providing national and international accreditation for health and human services. National accreditation is recognition for achieving high standards of excellence. CARF spans beyond the borders of the U.S. — its full name is CARF International.
Why Should Your Organization Choose CARF Accreditation?
CARF can provide fiscal savings through improved standing with institutions such as financial and rating agencies, investment bankers, and insurance carriers. Accreditation may provide a competitive edge over organizations that are not accredited.
It provides peace of mind to consumers, who know they are dealing with an organization dedicated to providing quality care. Accreditation may also assist in reducing risk exposure, especially for human resources, healthcare, governance, and finance.
Is Your Organization Eligible to Achieve CARF Accreditation?
The following is a list of organizational types which may qualify:
- Aging services
- Behavioral health
- Business and services management networks
- CARF-CCAC
- Child and youth services
- DME POS
- Employment and community services
- Medical rehabilitation
- Opioid treatment programs
- Vision rehabilitation services
How Can CARF Benefit Your Organization?
- Competitive advantage
- Greater communication
- Person-focused standards
- Accountability to financial institutions and referral agencies
- Efficient, cost-effective management
- Proof to governmental agencies of the commitment to quality
- Guidance to management
- Marketing tool
- CARF support through their online resources
How Does Your Organization Become Accredited?
- Consult with a CARF specialist
- Conduct a self-evaluation
- Submit an intent to survey
- CARF invoices the organization
- CARF selects the survey team
- An on-site survey is conducted
- CARF renders a decision
- Submit a Quality Improvement Plan (QIP)
- Submit an Annual Conformance to Quality Report (ACQR)
- Communication is maintained between the organization and CARF for the duration of the accreditation period
For more information, please refer to the CARF website (www.carf.org). If you require assistance in achieving CARF accreditation or re-accreditation, please contact our CARF consultants. One of BHM Healthcare Solutions’ areas of expertise is CARF accreditation consulting.
BHM Healthcare Solutions — a healthcare management consulting firm
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