How to Evaluate a Hospice Accreditor

Myth

“All accrediting organizations (AOs) are essentially the same.”

Evaluation cue: How does your team describe the accreditation experience?

Truth

CMS requirements mean that standards are similar across AOs, but each organization has a unique approach to assessing compliance.

ACHC is known for superior customer services as exemplified by access to expertise and education throughout the term of accreditation. By prioritizing an education-driven approach, with clearly described requirements and consistency in evaluation, ACHC supports an agency’s long-term success rather than just checking boxes or looking for reasons to cite deficiencies.

Myth

“Switching AOs is a big lift that risks my Medicare Billing.”

Evaluation cue: Does your AO offer access to a dedicated process expert?

Truth

ACHC’s onboarding process ensures a seamless transition with zero gaps in your deeming status. A dedicated Account Advisor is your resource for a streamlined application process and reliable and accessible clinical support makes the change smooth and secure.

Myth

“We only need to focus on accreditation every three years, when the next survey is coming.”

Evaluation cue: Does your team ramp up before each renewal survey?

Truth

Waiting to “ramp up” before a survey is poor risk management.

ACHC views accreditation as an investment in quality and operational sustainability. Free webinars and other educational offerings ensure that agencies can rely on ACHC for support as they develop staff, improve care, and ensure quality for patients and their families. We are a partner throughout the accreditation cycle.

Myth

“The cost of accreditation is an unpredictable, unavoidable expense.”

Evaluation cue: Can you accurately budget the cost of accreditation?

Truth

Don't confuse price with value. A higher invoice often just covers corporate overhead, not better service. When considering the true cost of accreditation, you must factor in hidden travel fees, staff time, and administrative fees to interpret vague standards.

ACHC eliminates these “hidden costs” with a flat-fee model and in-house experts who provide clear answers the first time. Additionally, ACHC includes unlimited, expert guidance from a dedicated advisor. This proactive support features readiness assessments, ensuring you’re well-prepared without needing additional resources.

Myth

“There’s no consistency between surveys.”

Evaluation cue: Is your team surprised by survey findings?

Truth

ACHC Surveyors undergo extensive, comprehensive initial education  and then they work with a preceptor on actual surveys to ensure they understand and apply standards consistently as they collect data. Then, an ACHC review committee evaluates every survey report prior to making an accreditation decision.

And training isn’t one and done. ACHC Surveyor training is ongoing and performance is continuously evaluated.

Myth

“All AO surveyors are the same.”

Evaluation cue: Do your surveyors comments reflect relevant experience?

Truth

ACHC Surveyors bring years of specialized experience in hospice, having faced and understood the real-world challenges agencies encounter. They know the special skills and commitment needed for this work because they’ve honed those exact skills over years of work in hospice care. Having visited numerous agencies,ACHC Surveyors offer practical guidance on what works and what doesn't, ensuring evaluations are not only thorough but also helpful in improving your agency's operations.

Myth

“Surveyors decide which deficiencies to cite based on personal discretion or conflicts.”

Evaluation cue: Do your surveyors frame noncompliance as an opportunity to improve?

Truth

Surveyors are required to cite all identified deficiencies as part of their role in ensuring compliance with regulations and standards. They do not have the discretion to overlook issues based on personal judgment or conflicts.

ACHC Surveyors approach this responsibility as partners in your improvement journey, providing objective evaluations. Agencies can dispute findings and work collaboratively with surveyors to address and resolve issues, with a focus on long-term success and improvement rather than simply penalizing deficiencies.