NATIONAL ASSISTED LIVING ACCREDITATION PROCESS COMING SOON
A national voluntary accreditation process for Assisted Living providers, developed by the Commission on
Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is due to be open for facilities to apply by July 1, 2000.
The accreditation process will focus on the evaluation of consumer-centered initiatives and the quality and
efficiency of service delivery. CARF will strive to set high quality standards that will significantly affect
the lives of assisted living residents. The need and enthusiasm for an Assisted Living accreditation has been
endorsed by both the Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) and the American Association of Homes and
Services for the Aging (AAHSA).
After July 1, 2000, those seeking placement in an Assisted Living facility may ask that residence whether or
not they are CARF certified or currently seeking certification. An Assisted Living accreditation process is
important to both service providers and consumers because it sets standards of quality and provides prospective
residents with in-depth information on a facility. Voluntary accreditation also allows service providers to
demonstrate to consumers that they aspire to provide the best possible service.
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