NCJ Number
186798
Journal
Substance Use and Misuse: An International Interdisciplinary Forum Volume: 35 Issue: 12-14 Dated: 2000 Pages: 1679-1703
Date Published
2000
Length
25 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the differences between accreditation standards and performance indicators for substance-user treatment programs in the context of the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities' (CARF's) accreditation system and its performance indicators project.
Abstract
Performance indicators -- or performance measures as they are called by some organizations -- may or may not be part of accreditation standards. The definition of "performance indicator" adopted by CARF is "a quantitative expression used to point to program quality or performance; usually expressed as a percentage rate, or ratio." CARF's work in relation to performance indicators is not, as of this writing, explicitly included as part of accreditation standards. This paper summarizes accreditation standards that require outcome data collection and analysis. Standards undergo regular periodic review and revision, and outcome standards are a focus for refinement in 2000. Although the authors also summarize draft performance indicators identified by work groups facilitated by CARF, the reader is encouraged to seek the latest version of the CARF documents published on this topic. Standards and indicators for programs that use methadone treatment are also described in the paper. The authors note that substantial input from consumers of substance-use rehabilitation programs as well as other behavioral health rehabilitation programs is being sought through CARF's project and will be incorporated in the proposed set of indicators. 16 references