Introduction 

Since 1998, Accident and Medical Clinics have had the option of seeking ACC accreditation.

In the accreditation process, Clinics are audited against a written Standard, which was funded by the ACC, administered by Standards New Zealand, and formulated by an 'expert committee', including representatives of AMPA, Clinics, and various others, and then compiled by Standards New Zealand into an A&M Clinic  Standards document, which can be purchased from Standards New Zealand.

The ACC has developed a contract for accredited Clinics, which most find favourable.

The Standard addresses many areas that are fundamental to good Accident and Medical Practice, and AMPA recommends that Clinics undertake accreditation.

How does a Clinic become accredited?

The first step in seeking accreditation is to engage an approved auditor, who will advise the Clinic on preparation for audit and obtaining a copy of the Standard. Once the Clinic is prepared, the auditor will assess wide-ranging aspects of the Clinic including the Clinic building and fit-out, systems, and compliance with legislation.

Clinics must be reaccredited every three years.

Who are the auditors?

Two groups are approved to conduct audits.

1) AMPA in conjunction with DAA Group Limited

Contact Janice McEwan, PO Box 33 042, Christchurch. 03 329 6477, fax 03 329 6577, Mobile 029 2347500; email JaniceM@daagroup.co.nz, Website:  http://www.daagroup.co.nz/

2) Quality Health New Zealand Limited

Can AMPA help?

Compliance with the Standard can appear daunting at first. AMPA strove to make the Standard practical and useful, though the need to comply with legislation and current quality-assurance industry practices has led to some requirements the purpose of which is not immediately obvious.

Clinics seeking accreditation may wish to contact AMPA for assistance.

Training to become a Clinic auditor

DAA offers courses - 2010 Training Dates:

Healthcare Auditor Training Courses (5 Days)

Christchurch

15-19 Marc

14-18 June

16-20 August

22-26 November

Wellington

26-30 April

16-20 October

Internal Audit Training (2 Days)

30-31 March – Christchurch

11-12 May – Dunedin

6-7 July – Christchurch

14-16 September – Dunedin

9-10 November - Christchurch