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From the 2023 4th Quarter Pressure

Derall W. Garrett, CHT

Why should one pursue Hyperbaric Facility Accreditation when it is voluntary?

Why should one pursue Hyperbaric Facility Accreditation when it is voluntary?

The UHMS Hyperbaric Facility Accreditation establishes a set of standards in consultation with industry experts, incorporating the codes and regulations of the industry. These standards encompass various aspects such as patient safety, training, record-keeping, and equipment maintenance.

Patient care assurance is of utmost importance in the hyperbaric industry. When a hyperbaric organization meets national health, quality, and safety standards, patients can be assured that they recieve the best care possible. One way for hyperbaric to ensure compliance with current standards and regulations is by obtaining voluntary accreditation. This accreditation not only assures compliance but also serves as a benchmark for measuring an organization's performance.

Moreover, the accreditation process can help an organization highlight its strengths, reaffirm its commitment to compliance, and drive continuous improvement. Achieving and maintaining accreditation is beneficial in many ways, such as helping organizations maintain compliance with codes and standards, keeping up-to-date with industry standards, stimulating quality improvement, improving accountability and transparency, and enhancing the capacity of the department to provide high-quality programs.

Preparing for accreditation takes a comprehensive review of how an organization functions. It is a long and intensive process that helps identify areas of risk. Organizations must conduct a thorough assessment of their processes, policies, and procedures related to hyperbaric codes and standards. This assessment helps identify any gaps in compliance. Updating policies, procedures, and training materials requires collaboration with administrators and leaders. By taking a proactive approach to risk management, organizations can identify gaps in compliance and adjust procedures to ensure safety. This results in safer processes and fewer mistakes.

Once the organization is prepared, external surveyors will conduct an on-site survey to determine if the organization should be accredited. The surveyors are industry experts and peer reviewers from other accredited hyperbaric facilities.

Receiving a recommendation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to get Hyperbaric Facility Accreditation can significantly boost patient confidence in your facility and attract more patients. Being accredited gives you an advantage over your competitors, as potential patients are more likely to choose an accredited facility over one that is not accredited. Accreditation helps to enhance the quality of care provided, which results in higher patient satisfaction. Satisfied patients are more likely to recommend your facility to others and return for future medical assistance.

Accreditation is an investment worth considering. Ultimately, it can provide numerous benefits for your organization. Hyperbaric Facility Accreditation aims to strengthen your organization and demonstrate that you offer high-quality care. Obtaining and maintaining accreditation provides benchmarks for measuring your organization's performance. The process also helps you stay compliant with codes and standards and remain up-to-date with industry best practices. Achieving accreditation is a valuable accomplishment that can enhance your organization's reputation and credibility.


 Congratulations to these Facilities!

SealofAccreditation

JULY 2023

Reaccredited:
Griffin Hospital, Derby, CT
Nuvance Health Northern Dutchess Hospital, Rhinebeck, NY

AUGUST 2023

New:
HyOx Medical Treatment Center, Marietta, GA
White Plains Hospital, White Plains, NY

Reaccredited:
OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, Columbus, OH

SEPTEMBER 2023

Reaccredited:
AdventHealth Hospital Carrollwood, Tampa, FL
AdventHealth Hospital Carrollwood at Brandon, Brandon, FL
AdventHealth Hospital Tampa, Tampa, FL
CoxHealth, Springfield, MO
St. Luke's Hospital, Cornwall, NY

With Distinction*