ACCREDITATION IN POLAND – A CASE STUDY

Introduction and Objective: More than a decade ago in Poland, some enthusiasts engaged in preparation of an accreditation program for primary care practices. The aims of this case study are: (1) to briefly describe an accreditation program of primary care practices in Poland, as an example from Easter European countries; (2) to illuminate basic advantages and drawbacks of the concept and process of accreditation. Method: In Poland, the accreditation was started in 2004 as an initiative of the non-governmental organization. The Polish parliament approved a new accreditation act in the health care in November 2008. Results/conclusions: Currently, the process is centrally organized. Surveyors assess the level of practice performance, in relation to 123 standards, classified in 8 groups: (1) comprehensive care; (2) patients’ rights; (3) quality improvement; (4) safety of care; (5) healthcare team; (6) medical documentation; (7) organization, (8) infrastructure. Each standard is categorized as completed, partially completed or not completed, and based on this, a total number of earning points is being calculated. A minimum requirement for accreditation is to receive 75% of all possible points. Until the end of 2015, altogether 31 PC practices have received their accreditation. A current accreditation program in Poland, has a solid legal basis, clear procedure, explicit set of standards. The standards are applicable to a wide range of practices, from single-handed ones to large public centers. There is relatively low interest to participate in the program. One of the important barriers is an absence of financial benefits of the accreditation.