Health Equity Accreditation Plus Builds on Core Equity Standards, Distinguishes High-Level Organizations and Proves Feasibility of Enhanced Standards
WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) today announced that nine health care organizations have earned accreditation in the first cohort of the NCQA Health Equity Accreditation Plus program.
Advancing Health Equity in Accreditation
Health equity has been a longstanding issue in healthcare, with disparities in access and outcomes based on race, income, and other social determinants of health. The NCQA Health Equity Accreditation Plus program aims to address these disparities by setting enhanced standards for organizations to meet. These standards go beyond the basic requirements for accreditation and focus specifically on promoting equity in healthcare delivery.
The nine organizations that have earned accreditation in the first cohort of the program have demonstrated a commitment to advancing health equity in their communities. By meeting these high-level standards, they are distinguishing themselves as leaders in the field and setting an example for other healthcare organizations to follow.
The Feasibility of Enhanced Standards
One of the key goals of the NCQA Health Equity Accreditation Plus program is to prove the feasibility of enhanced standards for promoting health equity. By demonstrating that these standards can be met by organizations of varying sizes and resources, the program is paving the way for widespread adoption of equity-focused practices in healthcare.
Through the accreditation process, organizations are able to assess their current practices, identify areas for improvement, and implement changes to better serve their communities. This focus on continuous quality improvement is essential for addressing health disparities and ensuring that all patients receive high-quality care.
Implications for the Healthcare Industry
The nine organizations that have earned accreditation in the first cohort of the NCQA Health Equity Accreditation Plus program are leading the way in promoting health equity in healthcare. By demonstrating their commitment to equity-focused practices, they are setting a new standard for the industry as a whole.
Other healthcare organizations will be looking to these leaders for guidance on how to improve their own practices and promote equity in their communities. As more organizations adopt equity-focused standards, we can expect to see a shift towards more equitable healthcare delivery and improved outcomes for all patients.
How Health Equity Accreditation Plus Will Impact Me
As a healthcare consumer, the implementation of the NCQA Health Equity Accreditation Plus program means that I can expect to receive more equitable care from accredited organizations. By following enhanced standards for promoting health equity, these organizations are better equipped to address disparities and provide high-quality care to all patients, regardless of their background.
How Health Equity Accreditation Plus Will Impact the World
On a global scale, the adoption of equity-focused practices in healthcare has the potential to improve health outcomes for populations around the world. By setting a new standard for promoting health equity, the NCQA Health Equity Accreditation Plus program is leading the way towards a more equitable healthcare system that prioritizes the needs of all patients.
Conclusion
The NCQA Health Equity Accreditation Plus program is a significant step forward in promoting health equity in healthcare. By setting enhanced standards and recognizing organizations that meet these standards, the program is driving positive change in the industry. As more organizations adopt equity-focused practices, we can expect to see improvements in healthcare delivery and outcomes for all patients.
