Frequently asked questions about CARF accreditation
What is CARF accreditation?
CARF (The Rehabilitation Accreditation Commission) is a private, not-for-profit
organization that promotes quality rehabilitation services. It does this
by establishing standards of quality for organizations to use as guidelines
in developing and offering their programs or services to consumers. CARF
uses the standards to determine how well an organization is serving its
consumers and how it can improve.
The CARF standards are developed with input from consumers, rehabilitation professionals, state and national organizations and funders. Every year, standards are reviewed and new ones developed to keep pace with changing conditions and current consumer needs.
What does it mean to be CARF
accredited?
After an organization applies for accreditation, CARF sends professionals
in the field to conduct an on-site survey to determine the degree to which
the organization meets the standards. CARF surveyors also consult with
staff members and offer suggestions for improving the quality of services.
CARF-accredited programs and services have demonstrated that they substantially meet nationally recognized standards. CARF accreditation means that an organization has made a commitment to continually enhance the quality of its services and programs and its focus on consumer satisfaction.
What are the benefits of CARF
accreditation?
Choosing CARF-accredited programs and services gives you the assurance
that:
The programs or services actively involve consumers in selecting, planning and using services.
The organization's programs and services have met consumer-focused, state-of-the-art national standards of performance.
These standardes were developed with the involvement and input of consumers.
The organization is focused on assistaing each consumer in achieving his or her chosen goals and outcomes.
How often does CARF grant accreditation?
CARF grants either a one-year or three-year accreditation. ESR has always received the three-year accreditation, which is the highest level of accreditation an agency may achieve.
Where is CARF located?
Rehabilitation Accreditation Commission
4891 East Grant Road
Tucson, Arizona 85712
Voice/TDD 520-325-1044
Fax 520-318-1129
http://www.carf.org
