Frequently Asked Questions about CARF Accreditation

Why should our organization get accredited?

That's really for you to answer. Accreditation can give you an edge in competition for additional business, depending on your market. Funders generally prefer organizations that have been accredited, given a choice.

If you want to be accredited, but aren't sure where to start or how it might help in your particular situation, call us. We have helped many programs successfully attain and maintain CARF accreditation over the past 15 years. We'll be glad to help you sort out the specifics for your organization.

Do I have to do a lot of “busywork” to get and stay accredited?

Accreditation standards require an information loop, as well as various systems that support sound business practices. Does this mean more paperwork? It can, and the payoff - if the systems and reporting are set up correctly - is more effective and efficient operations.

How difficult is it to get accredited?

It depends. Most programs develop their policies and procedures based on the regulations established by their state. If your state has high clinical standards reflected in these regulations, accreditation is easier, at least in the program area.

Many states don't require evidence of good business practices in organizational operations. This is where many organizations fall short of accreditation requirements. We provide a number of documents and customized systems to assist you in the process of bringing your business operations up to CARF Standards.

Does it cost a lot to become accredited?

Not if you are properly prepared and understand the accreditation process. Survey teams are assigned based on the organization's size and number of locations and CARF works to keep the costs down. Where accreditation becomes expensive is when you fail to obtain more than one year accreditation awards.

The most cost effective award is a Three Year Accreditation. If you use our materials and consultation, your chances of obtaining a Three Year award are increased substantially and you save money, no matter what size your organization.

How long does it take to become accredited?

Generally, organizations take from 12 to 18 months to prepare for their first accreditation visit. It is important to be properly prepared and be comfortable that you meet the standards that are appropriate to your organization before you submit an application.

If you need to be accredited sooner, we can help you get up and running with your process more quickly. Call us to discuss your situation. We have helped organizations with less than 6 months to prepare - and many got three Year Accreditations!

Any other reasons to consider accreditation?

In a word, confidence. Accreditation can increase your viability as an organization by creating systems and reporting mechanisms that you may not currently use, giving you -the leadership - more information to help with decision making. Being accredited gives the people you serve and your employees a sense of pride in your operations - you have been compared with programs internationally and found to meet best practice standards.