About the only thing that can match the rigorous nature of getting your institution accredited in the first place is the equally rigorous prospect of undergoing re-accreditation. Fortunately for the team at the Cassopolis Family Clinic Network that mission has been accomplished.
We’ve received word today that the network (CFCN) has been reaccredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). Accreditation distinguishes this Community Health Center from many other outpatient facilities through its adherence to rigorous standards of care and safety.
Status as an accredited organization means CFCN has met nationally recognized standards for the provision of quality healthcare set by the national association. More than 6,100 ambulatory healthcare organizations across the United States are accredited. 1095 Strong is a transformational movement and call-to action spearheaded by the AAAHC to equip ambulatory leaders with the best of what they need to operationalize quality practices.
The three-year, or 1,095-day, period between accreditations is a critical time when such health organizations, with help from proven experts, can develop the kind of everyday habits that enable leaders in the industry to provide the utmost in quality care to their patients.
Organizations, such as CFCN, that earn AAAHC Accreditation embody the spirit of 1095 Strong, quality every day, an ongoing commitment to high quality care and patient safety. While the onsite survey is an important component of the process, ongoing compliance and continuous improvement are part of the accreditation maintenance mindset that a facility needs to integrate into its daily activities long after the survey has been completed. The intent of accreditation is for organizations to adopt policies and procedures that fuel ongoing quality improvement and self-evaluation every day.
Mary Geegan Middleton is CEO at the Cassopolis Family Clinic Network. She says, “We believe our patients deserve the best,” and adds, “When you see our certificate of accreditation, you will know that AAAHC, an independent, not-for-profit organization, has closely examined our facility and procedures. It means we as an organization care enough about our patients to strive for the highest level of care possible.”
Ambulatory healthcare organizations seeking AAAHC Accreditation undergo an extensive self-assessment and onsite survey by expert surveyors, including physicians, nurses, and administrators who are actively involved in ambulatory care. The survey is peer-based and educational, presenting best practices to help an organization improve its care and services.
The local network’s Middleton says, “Going through the reaccreditation process challenged us to find better ways to serve our patients, and it is a constant reminder that our responsibility is to strive to continuously improve the quality of care we provide.” said Middleton.
Cassopolis Family Clinic Network is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, designated a Federally Qualified Health Center. With locations in Cassopolis and Niles, CFCN provides primary care, behavioral health, obstetrics and gynecology, dental, pharmacy, and healthcare enrollment assistance services for the communities of Cass and southeast Berrien Counties.
CFCN provides care for people who are uninsured, underinsured, covered by Medicare and Michigan Medicaid and most commercial insurances. For more information, go to www.cassfamilyclinic.org or call (269) 445-3874.
