Quality standards form the cornerstone of CARF accreditation. Conformance to quality standards is a way to identify areas for improvement and growth and help the service provider focus on improved service outcomes, the satisfaction of the persons served, and quality service delivery. Each standard sets a guideline for the subject addressed.
The unique collection of standards in each standards manual composes a framework that builds upon your existing practices. Each manual includes quality standards for business practices, service processes, and specific programs and services. Standards provide a mechanism for continuous improvement to positively impact service providers and their consumers.
CARF publishes standards manuals in the following areas:
- Aging Services (including Continuing Care Retirement Communities)
- Behavioral Health
- Business and Services Management Networks
- Child and Youth Services
- Employment and Community Services
- Medical Rehabilitation (including DMEPOS)
- Opioid Treatment Program
- Vision Rehabilitation Services
CARF quality standards have been recognized as a roadmap for quality practices. With the rapid changes in health and human services, the standards assist a service provider in maintaining a leading edge.
Each set of standards is developed with the input of providers, consumers, payers, and other experts from around the world. As such, CARF standards are “field-driven” and “international consensus” standards.
Each year, CARF updates its standards manuals to ensure that its standards are relevant and guide service excellence. Often, the updates provide clarification in response to feedback received from the field. Occasionally, CARF will introduce or update a set of standards between printings of the standards manual. These mid-year changes may be posted online or be available through Customer Connect.
