The University of Houston Health Center has been awarded accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). Accreditation distinguishes this campus health facility from many other outpatient facilities by assuring that the highest quality of care is delivered to its patients as determined by an independent, external process of evaluation.
Status as an accredited organization means that the UH Health Center has met nationally recognized standards for the provision of quality health care set by AAAHC. More than 5,000 ambulatory health care organizations across the United States are accredited by AAAHC. Not all ambulatory health care organizations seek accreditation; not all that undergo the rigorous on-site survey process are granted accreditation.
“We believe our students deserve the best health care,” stated Floyd Robinson, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs - Health and Wellness. “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 health care organizations seeking accreditation by AAAHC undergo an extensive self-assessment and on-site survey by AAAHC expert surveyors – physicians, nurses, and administrators who are actively involved in ambulatory health care. The survey is consultative and educational, presenting best practices to help an organization improve its care and services.
The UH Health Center was surveyed in late June and received notification of the three-year accreditation term last Thursday afternoon. With this being their first time seeking this award, the UH Health Center is now one of only thirteen university health centers in the state of Texas to be accredited.
“The dedication and effort necessary for an organization to be accredited is substantial and the compliance with standards implies a commitment to continual self-evaluation and continuous improvement,” commented Dr. Richard Walker, Vice Chancellor/Vice President for Student Affairs. Accredited organizations are required to maintain their operations in compliance with the current AAAHC standards and policies, which are revised on a yearly basis.
“Accreditation means that rigorous, national standards have been met or exceeded. The entire Health Center staff worked hard on every aspect of the care provided to our patients. Our patients can be assured that maintaining accreditation means that we will strive continuously for the highest quality, patient oriented health care,” said Dr. Mary Rae, Chief Physician at the UH Health Center.
Robinson proudly stated, “I am happy that the Health Center can contribute to the Tier One status of our University...I assure you that we will be compliant and ready for our next review in three years.”
“I want to thank Floyd, Dr. Rae, Jennifer Nguyen RN and the entire Health Center staff for their dedication and commitment to providing quality health care services to our students, faculty and staff.” expressed Dr. Walker. The Division of Student Affairs greatly appreciates this department’s contribution to the UH campus community and looks forward to its growth as we approach the new school year.