Kalamunda Health Service congratulated on its recent accreditation with ACHS

16/2/99

Health Minister John Day today congratulated the Kalamunda Health Service on its recent accreditation with the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS).

Mr Day said accreditation by ACHS was an independent verification of the high quality and standards of patient care being provided by the health service.

"Staff work exceptionally hard to achieve the high standards required by the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards for this kind of accreditation and it is very pleasing to see that their diligence and effort has been rewarded," he said.

"It is viewed by other health services, patients and the public to demonstrate a commitment and achievement to attain such high standards of patient care."

Kalamunda Health Service first gained accreditation in 1995, and, in accordance with the certification process, again sought accreditation status in September 1998.

Mr Day said in the report the staff were commended for their obvious commitment to change and quality improvement.

He said the surveyor made special mention that the health service had caught the 'quality bug' which was highlighted through the excellent work which had been achieved in improving organisation performance.

Some of the initiatives include:

·      reorganisation of the staff structure into functional teams;

·      develop a stream-lined and innovative elective admission service; and -

·      enhance a strong relationship with Silver Chain Nursing.

Mr Day also acknowledged the health service's Quality Co-ordinator, Mrs Nicky Scrivener for her outstanding contribution in changing the culture of the health service which now ensures quality improvement as part of everyday business.

"I also want to commend the Health Service Team Managers and Quality Portfolio Holders and the Hospital's Medical Advisory Committee, for their consistent drive and dedication in working towards this achievement," he said.

Media contact: Mark Thompson on 9213 6600