UF Student Health Care Center receives distinguished accreditation

July 30, 2008

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The University of Florida Student Health Care Center (SHCC) recently achieved accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). This distinguishes the SHCC from many other health care facilities by providing a safe-work environment and the highest quality of care to patients.

Status as an accredited organization means the SHCC has met nationally recognized standards for the provision of quality health care, set by the Accreditation Association. More than 3,600 ambulatory health care organizations across the U.S. are accredited by AAAHC. However, less than 15 percent of college health services are accredited.

“We believe our patients deserve the best,” said Louise Okken, SHCC quality improvement coordinator. When people see the certificate of accreditation, they will know that the AAAHC examined the facility and its procedures. “It means that we care enough about our patients to strive for the highest care possible.”

Organizations seeking accreditation by the AAAHC undergo an extensive self-assessment and an on-site survey by the Accreditation Association’s expert surveyors. The survey is consultative and educational in order to help organizations improve their services.

“Going through the process challenges us to find better ways to serve our patients, and it is a constant reminder that our first responsibility is to our patients and the quality of care we provide,” said Dr. Phillip Barkley, director of SHCC. “I commend our staff for working with such a high level of excellence and patience during our transition into a paperless world while keeping the focus on quality.”