Why ACHC?

ACHC is the only national health care accrediting organization started at the grass-roots level by a few home care providers endeavoring to create a viable option of accreditation sensitive to the needs of small providers. The model was to “ensure a voice for providers".

The inception began in 1985 in Raleigh, NC through the efforts of members of the state home care association and a few representatives from four divisions of state government. Incorporation was accomplished in August of 1986, with the first accredited organization being awarded a certificate in January of 1987. ACHC began offering services nationally in 1996.

The founders’ design was based upon the following:

• Standards that would be patient-centered, relevant, realistic and written in easily understood language
• A self-assessment process that would help applicants identify and organize evidence of compliance
• Educational and consultative site-visits
• Customer services with a friendly, responsive approach

This philosophy has not changed since inception, and ACHC is firmly committed to requiring what is right and best for the patient. In past years, ACHC has endeavored to respond to unmet needs in the industry. It was the first, with help from industry experts, to develop accrediting programs for the niche market areas listed below:

• Specialty Pharmacy
• Women’s Post-Breast Surgery Fitter Services
• Medical Supply Provider Services
• Complex Rehab & Assistive Technology Supplier

ACHC believes the entire healthcare industry is undergoing major transformation and is proactive in learning new quality principles. Because of this, ACHC took the lead by becoming the first health care accrediting organization to achieve the international distinction of certification to ISO 9001:2008. It has also took the lead to develop a first ever hybrid of accreditation with ISO requirements. It is our intent to inspire providers and/or improve their continuous quality improvement activities.

• CORE Purpose: To help our customers succeed
• CORE Mission: To support healthcare organizations and providers in optimizing wellness through standards that promote the effective, efficient delivery of quality services and products
• CORE Values: Integrity ... Innovation ... Enhancing Outcomes ... Excellence in all Things ... Flexibility Without Compromising Quality ... Concern for the Entire Healthcare Continuum ...
• Quality Policy: The Accreditation Commission for Health Care is committed to developing and improving health care accreditation programs and services, meeting customer and regulatory requirements, enhancing employee skills and efficiencies, continual improvement of our quality management systems and processes, sustained fiscal growth and improved market presence.
• Core Competencies:
  • Develop comprehensive and relevant healthcare accreditation standards & programs
  • Impartial third-party peer reviews in the evaluation of patient care services
  • A systematic approach for chart review & data analysis
  • Best practice education and quality suggestions from certified & qualified surveyors for business operations and evidence-based health care
  • Data analysis & evaluation for organizational improvement
  • Reporting mechanisms, program reviews and results to state government and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS)
  • Onsite clinical personnel available (clinical advisors/managers: Home Health/Hospice, HME/Sleep, Pharmacy Infusion, Behavioral Health, Quality Assurance, etc.)
  • A collaborative, relevant approach to the entire accreditation process
  • Home Care and alternate site services accreditation

Why ACHC? It is the only company with the motto, “by providers for providers", determined to enhance the value and meaning of accreditation.

Tom Cesar, MPM
President

ACHC's standards reflect the realistic expectations and quality of care required of any reputable home medical equipment provider. The entire survey process was a helpful and educational experience.

Resurrection Home Medical Equipment, Chicago, IL