WHERE DO WE BEGIN?

The decision to seek COA accreditation should be made with the full knowledge that a commitment of resources - financial and personnel - will be necessary, as well as a willingness to conduct a comprehensive organizational assessment that examines the agency's capacity in such areas as Administration and Management, Financial Resource Management, Human Resource Management, Community Linkages, Cultural Competencies, and Performance Implementation and Outcomes.

Whether you've already made the decision to seek COA accreditation or whether you're still considering the benefits, here are a few recommended steps:

• Visit COA's website www.coanet.org to gain information and an understanding of the Council on Accreditation.
• If you haven't already applied, speak with a member of COA's Client Relations department to determine whether COA is the appropriate choice for your agency. They will provide an information packet and application for your review.
• Familiarize yourself with COA's Accreditation Policies and Procedures Manual (see Related Files) which cover all of the accreditation policies and procedures under which COA operates.
• Develop a presentation for your senior management team that describes the merits of accreditation.
• Educate your staff about the many benefits COA accreditation offers that will support their commitment to quality practice and the agency's dedication to excellence.
• Discuss the process, the standards, and the commitment that is required to achieve COA accreditation with your stakeholders.
• Assess your ability to implement the standards, including those standards that are fundamental to become COA-accredited.
• Let your service recipients know that COA accreditation affirms your commitment to providing them with the very best services. Tell them that when it comes to their needs, Good enough is not good enough!