JCAHO Accredited Facilities: Why Accreditation Matters in Addiction Treatment

When searching for a drug rehab facility, one of the first recommendations you may often hear is to find a program that is one of the JCAHO Accredited Facilities. But, what does it mean for a drug rehab program to be accredited and does it make a difference in the quality of care? In many cases, it does.

Treatment facilities often seek accreditation in addition to becoming licensed through the state. One of the most highly sought-after accreditations is through JCAHO, America’s largest accreditor for health care services and the second largest for addiction treatment services.

What is JCAHO Accreditation?

JCAHO is the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. The non-profit got its start in 1910 beginning first as the American College of Surgeons. Over time, the organization evolved to include all types of healthcare facilities. Its primary focus was to create systematic standardization for hospitals, regardless of the type of facility. In recent years, the organization has shortened its name to “The Joint Commission” (TJC).

JACHO accreditation requires review of the following:

• Assessment
• Patient care
• Services
• Medication Safety
• Environment
• Leadership
• Continuing education
• Employee background checks
• Evidence-based treatment
• Consumer rights

Does Accreditation Matter? Why Programs Become JCAHO Accredited Facilities

While accreditation may not always indicate a different level of quality, in most cases, it does mean a commitment to a higher level of service. Treatment programs that are accredited through JCAHO are committed to being some of the best facilities in the world. Accrediting bodies tend to have higher standards than state licensing, and they often provide guidelines of excellence for those seeking accreditation.

Achieving accreditation is a highly involved, rigorous process that involves thoroughly evaluating the facility’s practices, processes, structure, and outcomes to determine its effectiveness. Only those who meet the internationally-recognized standards for addiction treatment achieve accreditation. In fact, accreditation through JCAHO is highly desirable. Only 6 percent of treatment facilities obtain it.

Obtaining this accreditation shows that the facility with it is committed to providing high-quality, individualized care to patients. Those enrolled in these programs receive individualized treatment plans designed to address the unique needs of each individual in their care. Rather than providing a blanket approach to recovery, these facilities offer comprehensive care that treat not just the addiction, but the overall health of a person as well.

What Accreditation Offers

Accreditation is completely voluntary, but once it is achieved, it must be maintained. This displays a facility’s commitment to ongoing excellence in the treatment field. The process to obtain accreditation is long and substantial. It often involves communicating not only with the staff, but also the clients, and their family members to fully understand the organization’s practices and delivery of services.

Accreditation can offer you peace of mind when searching for the right treatment program. Accreditation can tell you a number of things about the facility you are considering including:

1. The treatment facility meets internationally recognized standards of quality
2. The facility is committed to enhancing clients’ experiences and providing the latest, most effective treatment options available
3. The staff is friendly, professional, and timely in delivery of services
4. Treatment is highly individualized and designed to meet the unique needs of each person
5. Staff is continuing to develop professionally and acquire new skills to benefit clients
6. The facility regularly engages with the accreditation program and keeps up-to-date on requirements and specifications

Essentially, accreditation is a way to determine that the facility you are considering has the clients’ needs at the top of their list. The facility is focused on providing excellent care to both clients and their loved ones throughout the process. Achieving accreditation is another way to demonstrate their commitment to clients’ needs and strengthen your confidence in their ability to do so.

About Nexus Recovery Services JCAHO Accredited Facility

At Nexus, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the most up-to-date, evidence-based care available. As a DCHS Licensed and JCAHO accredited program we are held to a higher standard than 94% of programs out there. Our licensed clinicians, case managers, and the administrative team always place individualized client care first. We encourage our clients and their families to be an active part of the recovery process. Through our partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient programs, our supported and taught the tools they need to overcome addiction, treat their mental health disorders, and lead successful, happy, sober lives.

References
www.promises.com/articles/addiction-treatment/why-treatment-center-accreditation-matters/
blogs.psychcentral.com/addiction-recovery/2014/07/what-does-drug-rehab-accreditation-really-mean/
www.hopebythesea.com/jcaho-accredited-rehab