An A for this hospital?

Accreditation has increasingly gained international acceptance as a mechanism to manage quality in healthcare organisations. Healthcare organisations, particularly hospitals, would benefit from an objective evaluation of their performance in enhancing quality improvement.

SINCE time immemorial, the medical profession had always been concerned about the standards and quality of healthcare provided to patients. The emphasis was on access and the availability of staff and equipment, until about three decades ago, when due consideration was given to safety and the effectiveness of care.