Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)

What is CARF?

Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) was founded in 1966 as an independent, nonprofit accrediting commission to assist with businesses related to health and human services. These lines of business include behavioral healthcare, child and youth services, aging services, opioid treatment programs, medical rehabilitation, vision rehabilitation services, and more. This accreditation covers North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. Every year, over 15 million individuals receive care from CARF-accredited service providers. CARF accreditation consultants help the over 60,000 programs and services that bear the seal of approval prove they have put into practice the professionalism that comes with being accredited.

The CARF survey that determines if a business will receive accreditation is complex and time-consuming. It involves an extensive review of a company’s records, policies, and procedures, as well as interviews with staff members to gain a full understanding of how the business operates. CARF consists of an elected Board of Directors who review and approve policies related to standards development and the accreditation process. The mission of CARF is to “promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process and continuous improvement services that center on enhancing the lives of persons served.”

CARF was formed in order to achieve certain goals related to overseeing the development of quality standards in the healthcare industry. These goals start with providing a uniform standard way of recognizing companies and organizations that have earned their accreditation. Accreditation by CARF signals to customers, potential clients, and shareholders that the company has developed and maintained proven, safe, and effective standards that elevate their company above those who do not have accreditation. Companies that become CARF-accredited understand how to employ best practices when it comes to training, education, consulting, and other aspects related to their line of business.

CARF maintains as one of its goals the continued applicable research that assists in providing information and management techniques for healthcare companies. The organization helps average companies become better, and companies that already operate at a higher level than many to improve their game. These goals ultimately allow companies to provide the best care possible, which not only benefits vulnerable clients in need, but helps companies boost their ability to increase their profits.

Many insurance companies will not provide coverage for programs that do not have CARF accreditation, making it imperative that treatment providers today become accredited. This accreditation shows that a company understands and provides quality care that their customers can trust is a step above the treatment provided by other companies. Establishing a solid reputation as a provider of gold-standard healthcare not only attracts more clients but also provides other benefits for companies that have CARF accreditation.

Banks and other financial institutions, along with insurance companies, reward accreditation by equating it with a company having financial stability. This can result in money-saving options available both in one-time offers and long-term financial opportunities. Many companies find that accreditation reduces their risks related to things like human resource events.

When the average person begins a search for healthcare treatment, it usually starts online. Having CARF accreditation sets a company apart from those that do not have it. It signals that the company meets certain important standards in the healthcare industry and is not some fly-by-night business that cannot be trusted. As well, many businesses that have accreditation find it advantageous to work with each other. They often form rewarding partnerships and are able to network with each other in a way that produces a greater ability to reach customers and increase profit.