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BMC Health Services Research
Published in: BMC Health Services Research 1/2013

Open Access 01-12-2013 | Research article

Stakeholder perspectives on implementing accreditation programs: a qualitative study of enabling factors

Authors: Reece Hinchcliff, David Greenfield, Johanna I Westbrook, Marjorie Pawsey, Virginia Mumford, Jeffrey Braithwaite

Published in: BMC Health Services Research | Issue 1/2013

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Abstract

Background

Accreditation programs are complex, system-wide quality and safety interventions. Despite their international popularity, evidence of their effectiveness is weak and contradictory. This may be due to variable implementation in different contexts. However, there is limited research that informs implementation strategies. We aimed to advance knowledge in this area by identifying factors that enable effective implementation of accreditation programs across different healthcare settings.

Methods

We conducted 39 focus groups and eight interviews between 2011 and 2012, involving 258 diverse healthcare stakeholders from every Australian State and Territory. Interviews were semi-structured and focused on the aims, implementation and consequences of three prominent accreditation programs in the aged, primary and acute care sectors. Data were thematically analysed to distil and categorise facilitators of effective implementation.

Results

Four factors were identified as critical enablers of effective implementation: the accreditation program is collaborative, valid and uses relevant standards; accreditation is favourably received by health professionals; healthcare organisations are capable of embracing accreditation; and accreditation is appropriately aligned with other regulatory initiatives and supported by relevant incentives.

Conclusions

Strategic implementation of accreditation programs should target the four factors emerging from this study, which may increase the likelihood of accreditation being implemented successfully.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Stakeholder perspectives on implementing accreditation programs: a qualitative study of enabling factors
Authors
Reece Hinchcliff
David Greenfield
Johanna I Westbrook
Marjorie Pawsey
Virginia Mumford
Jeffrey Braithwaite
Publication date
01-12-2013
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Health Services Research / Issue 1/2013
Electronic ISSN: 1472-6963
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6963-13-437

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