WHAT HAPPENS AFTER WE ACHIEVE ACCREDITATION?

Following the successful completion of the accreditation process, you will receive the following:

• An e-mail communication stating that your agency has achieved accreditation. This is sent within 7 business days of the decision being made.
• A packet that contains, among other things, a formal notification letter stating that your agency has been accredited, your accreditation expiration date and a list of services that were reviewed. This is sent by hard copy to your agency's chief administrator within two weeks. Note: All related accreditation fees must be paid before the formal notification packet is sent out.
• A plaque reflecting your achievement of accreditation. You will receive this within two weeks of your formal notification.
• A Final Accreditation Report (FAR), which provides a complete set of ratings for all applicable standards, as well as a list of your agency's strengths and areas for improvement. This report is intended to be used to assist you in promoting continuous quality improvement. It is sent by hard copy 45 business days after you receive your formal notification letter.

COA views accreditation as a monumental achievement and recommends that you celebrate and publicize this milestone with your staff, community, and stakeholders. We provide you with a sample press release that can be revised and disseminated to all interested parties in order to assist you with this celebration.