How does CIHQ differentiate itself from traditional accrediting bodies?

CIHQ, or the Center for Improvement in Healthcare Quality, differentiates itself from traditional accrediting bodies primarily through its focus on integrating education and the establishment of Centers of Excellence designations. This emphasis allows CIHQ to not only assess compliance with healthcare standards but also to promote continuous education among healthcare organizations. By providing a framework for institutions to achieve excellence in specific areas, CIHQ fosters an environment of ongoing improvement, helping organizations to evolve and better meet patient needs.

The integration of educational resources into the accreditation process equips organizations with the knowledge and tools required for improvement, which is a distinctive approach compared to traditional bodies that may primarily focus on evaluation and compliance. This progressive model supports healthcare facilities in enhancing their quality of care while simultaneously achieving accreditation, aligning with growing trends toward value-based care. Moreover, designating Centers of Excellence helps identify and promote high-performing organizations within specific domains, benefiting both patients and providers through shared best practices and benchmarks.