What Is CARF Accreditation And Why It Matters

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) provides accreditation at the request of health or human service providers.

Providers that meet CARF standards for accreditation have demonstrated a commitment to being among the best facilities available for addiction treatment.

Choosing a CARF-accredited facility ensures that you are receiving a high standard of care during your addiction treatment.

What Is The Commission On Accreditation Of Rehabilitation Facilities?

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities is an independent and nonprofit accreditor of health and human services.

The commission was founded in 1966 and accredits over 65,000 rehabilitation programs.

The commission accredits the following program areas:

• aging services
• behavioral health
• children and youth services
• employment and community services
• vision rehabilitation
• medical rehabilitation
• opioid treatment programs

What Are The Criteria For CARF Accreditation?

When a facility applies for accreditation, CARF surveys the center. A CARF representative makes observations and reviews records to determine how well the facility meets standards.

To meet CARF standards, a rehabilitation facility must:

• demonstrate the use and implementation of CARF’s organizational and service standards
• demonstrate the direct provision of services to those served
• provide any records, reports, or information requested by CARF
• submit a quality improvement plan within 90 days of accreditation

One Year Accreditation

To achieve a one-year accreditation, an organization has to satisfy each of the accreditation conditions and demonstrate conformance to many of the standards.

There may be significant areas of deficiency in meeting some of the standards; however, there is evidence of the organization’s ability to correct the deficiencies and a commitment to correct them.

After a year, the company must undergo another survey performed by CARF.

Three Year Accreditation

To achieve three-year accreditation, the organization has to meet each condition and demonstrate substantial conformance to standards.

The organization must also show quality improvement over time to continue to receive accreditation.

Additionally, any organization given a three-year accreditation must send in a signed annual conformance to quality report.

After three years, another survey was completed of the company.

The Benefits Of Choosing A CARF-Accredited Addiction Recovery Program

CARF-accredited programs are thoroughly vetted during the accreditation process.

When you choose a facility that has been accredited by CARF, you can feel comfortable knowing that the facility provides comprehensive treatment and certified staff.

If you’re using health insurance to cover the cost of treatment, you may also find that CARF-accredited facilities are more likely to be accepted by your insurance company.

Who May Choose To Not Go To A CARF-Accredited Substance Abuse Treatment Center

While CARF-accredited addiction treatment centers are preferred by many, some people may prefer a non-accredited treatment center due to a personal preference.

It isn’t uncommon for people to prefer a holistic approach to addiction care. If you’re looking for a treatment experience that centers mindfulness and spiritual healing, you may choose a non-accredited facility.

It is also common for some people to see addiction recovery as an opportunity for religious revival. People who want a religiously focused treatment experience are also more likely to choose a non-accredited facility.

In some cases, a person may wish to attend treatment at a CARF-accredited center, but they may have difficulty accessing one due to distance or payment options.

Finding A CARF-Accredited Addiction Treatment Center

If you are looking for a CARF-accredited addiction treatment center, you can search for one in your local area on the CARF website by clicking on provider search.

Other Forms Of Accreditation For Substance Use Treatment

Besides CARF accreditation, there are other accreditations available for substance use treatment centers. These accreditations all vary in terms of requirements.

The Joint Commission (JCAHO)

The Joint Commission (JCAHO) is another major accrediting group for healthcare providers in the United States.

Joint Commission standards aim to ensure that accredited facilities meet current standards of care according to the most up-to-date scientific consensus.

Health Insurance Portability And Accountability Act (HIPAA)

HIPAA provides accreditation to healthcare providers that meet high-quality care standards in behavioral health.

HIPAA approval also shows a facility’s commitment to protect someone’s personal health
information.

National Association For Behavioral Healthcare

The National Association for Behavioral Healthcare recognizes facilities committed to providing
responsive, accountable, and clinically effective prevention treatment and care for those living with addiction.

Learn More About Accredited Addiction Treatment In Massachusetts

If you or a loved one is looking for a CARF-accredited addiction center for treatment, we can help.

Contact the Bedrock Recovery Center to learn more about how our accredited program can assist you in your addiction treatment and recovery.