Health care accreditation and quality of care: exploring the role of accreditation and external evaluation of health care facilities and organizations

Overview

This discussion paper explores accreditation as a health care quality intervention, drawing on a broad evidence base of accreditation and of other similar external evaluation processes, quality interventions and health systems research, combined with global interdisciplinary experience and expertise. It considers the linkages between accreditation and other key attributes of the health system and, using a health systems lens, discusses strategic questions that a health system decision-maker might consider. It does not represent normative guidance on whether or how to introduce or review accreditation or external evaluation, nor does it outline the process of setting up an accreditation body or programme.