WHAT IS THE SELF-STUDY?

The Self-Study is your organization's first opportunity to demonstrate implementation of the COA standards. With the guidance of your COA Coordinator, you will complete a Self-Study that serves as a self-assessment tool for you to evaluate your organization's strengths and opportunities for growth based on appropriate administration, management and service delivery standards.

The Self-Study is both a process and a document.

Process
Organizations pursuing accreditation engage in a process of self-evaluation as they assess their implementation of COA standards. This process determines how accreditation can facilitate change in the organization's policies, procedures, and standards of practice. The Self-Study can also reinforce the necessary maintenance and explanation of practices that are currently operational.

Document
Organizations complete and submit a Self-Study document prior to their site visit that includes evidence of implementation of the standards. The Self-Study serves as the first source of evidence for the Peer Review Team as they plan the site visit, gain knowledge about your organization, and begin to assess your implementation of and continuing performance with the standards.