Indiana University of Pennsylvania's Health Service office has recently achieved accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care. Accreditation is determined after an independent, external process of evaluation.
IUP is one of only 10 college health services in Pennsylvania that are accredited by AAAHC.
“This is another outstanding recognition of IUP's commitment to our students,” IUP Interim Vice President for Student Affairs Charles Fey said. “We have an excellent program and incredibly dedicated professionals in the Health Center. This accreditation is completely voluntary, so the staff's willingness to be evaluated speaks volumes about their dedication to their work and to being the best possible resource for our IUP community.”
Status as an accredited organization means the Health Service at IUP has met nationally recognized standards for the provision of quality health care set by AAAHC. Not all ambulatory health care organizations seek accreditation, and not all that undergo the rigorous on-site survey process are granted accreditation.
“We believe that our students deserve the best care,” Nurse Director of the Health Service Melissa Dick said. “When you see our certificate of accreditation, you will know that AAAHC, an independent, not-for-profit organization, has closely examined our facility, staff, and procedures. It means we as an organization care enough about our patients to ensure the highest level of care is provided.”
Ambulatory health care organizations seeking accreditation by AAAHC undergo an extensive self-assessment and on-site survey by AAAHC expert surveyors. The survey is consultative and educational, presenting best practices to help an organization improve its care and services.
“Going through the process challenged us to find better ways to serve our patients,” Dick said.
“It is a constant reminder that our responsibility is to strive to continuously improve the quality of care we provide. Our goal is to help students maintain their health and achieve academic success.”
The Health Service is a part of the Rhonda H. Luckey Center for Health and Well-Being, located in the Suites on Maple East. The Luckey Center offers a range of services that address the components of total well-being, physical, mental, and emotional health all in one location.
The Health Service staff is comprised of highly trained nurse practitioners, nurses, clerical staff, and a supervisory physician. The Health Service provides care to more than 11,000 students during an academic year.