Eye on Accreditation
Accreditation Commission for Health Care
Tom Cesar, President, Accreditation Commission for Health Care
How does your organization differ from other deemed accrediting organizations?
ACHC is known for having standards that are written to what is relevant to the equipment that is provided to patients. ACHC has an approach that is directed to helping the provider improve patient care and the business operation. ACHC is the only accrediting organization that has answered the question “who accredits the accreditor?” by becoming certified to ISO9001: 2000, which is an internationally recognized certification program for quality managed systems (QMS). ACHC was the only accrediting organization named in the Inc. 5000 list of one of America’s fastest growing private companies in 2007.
How long does it typically take for a respiratory provider to become accredited with your organization?
Once a provider has purchased the accreditation standards and has begun the self-assessment process to prepare for the on-site survey, it typically takes four to six months to be ready. However, if a company uses a consultant company to assist, the company can possibly be ready in six to eight weeks.
After the company has indicated that it is ready for a survey by submitting an application, deposit and contract, the company is put on the schedule to have an on-site visit. Once the company is on the schedule, the unannounced on-site survey will take place sometime within the next four to six months.
For companies in the 70 MSAs, ACHC is required to prioritize these surveys and the time frame will likely be quicker.
What common pitfalls do respiratory providers face with the accreditation process?
The most common deficiency for respiratory providers is that they do not have an adequate quality performance process that is required by the CMS quality standards. This includes, but is not limited to, customer satisfaction surveys, coding and billing errors related to DMEPOS products.
What is typically the easiest part of accreditation for respiratory providers?
Typically, most suppliers are providing good customer services. However, their policies and procedures do not adequately reflect what they are doing. It should be easy for providers to edit their policies to match their delivery of services.
What factors should respiratory providers consider when looking for an accrediting organization?
- Relevant and reasonable standards that best fit the providers’ mix of products and services
- Surveys that educate the providers for best business practices and add value to the company
- Responsive customer services
- Does the accrediting organization (AO) have recognition with state Medicaid programs and commercial third-party payors? Many commercial insurers make their own determination as to which accrediting bodies they will recognize.
What advice would you give respiratory providers seeking accreditation?
Regardless of the requirement imposed by CMS, view accreditation as a positive tool to raise your level of professionalism, improve business policies and procedures, strengthen your marketing position with consumers, and acquire new learning. Talk with colleagues in the industry, exchange information that is mutually helpful, research the AOs to determine your choice and realize accreditation is now a “cost of doing business.” Focus on this current challenge, dedicate the necessary hours to succeed and plan for future growth. The baby boomers are coming.
Fast Stats
Phone: (919) 785-1214
Web site: www.achc.org
Approved for: All DME, respiratory, orthotics, rehabilitation technology supplier and medical supply provider
This article originally appeared in the Respiratory Management Sept/Oct 2008 issue of HME Business.