Frontline Initiative Changing Roles

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a private, not-for-profit organization. It was formed in response to the need to promote quality programs for people with disabilities and others in need of services. CARF continues to develop and maintain practical, consumer-focused standards to help organizations measure and improve the quality, value, and best outcomes in the lives of the individuals they support.

Both CARF’s vision and mission statement explain the purpose for all of the services that CARF provides —

• The mission of CARF is to promote the quality, value and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process that centers on enhancing the lives of the persons served.
• Through responsiveness to a dynamic and diverse environment, CARF serves as a catalyst for improving the quality of life of the person served by CARF-accredited programs and services.

One of the main ways that CARF works toward its mission and vision is through its accreditation process. CARF accredits programs and services in Adult Day Services, Assisted Living, Behavioral Health, Employment and Community Services, and Medical Rehabilitation. Each year CARF invites consumers, family members, providers, payers and other interested individuals to play a part in reviewing the standards for accreditation to keep pace with changing conditions and consumer needs

While many think of an accreditation survey as an inspection that an agency will or will not pass, CARF uses a consultative approach to actually assist agencies in improving the quality and value of their services. The survey team is selected by matching the surveyor’s area of expertise with the agency’s unique needs. The survey team then offers helpful consultation to meet the individual needs of the agencies. 

In addition to providing consultation during an accreditation survey, CARF coordinates three international conferences and regional CARF seminars across the country. These seminars and conferences provide the latest information on the standards for accreditation and new procedures that will assist agencies in receiving accreditation.