779th MDG evaluated for AAAHC accreditation Published Sept. 1, 2011 779th Medical Group JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. (AAAHC/Accreditation Association) will conduct an initial accreditation survey of the 779th Medical Group Sept. 19-21. The survey will be used to evaluate the 779 MDG's compliance with AAAHC standards for ambulatory health care, and to determine if initial accreditation should be awarded to the organization. Through an emphasis on education and consultation, the ultimate purpose of the AAAHC accreditation process is to improve the quality of health care delivered by ambulatory clinics. The 779th Medical Group has voluntarily requested this survey as a means of having a review of the entire organization to build upon strengths or identify opportunities to improve the delivery of our quality health care. Members of the general public, patients, and individuals on the staff of this organization, believing that they have pertinent and valid information about this organization's provision of health care or compliance with AAAHC standards, may request an information presentation with AAAHC surveyors at the time of the survey for the purpose of presenting such information, or may communicate such information in writing or by telephone to the AAAHC. All information received from identified individuals at or prior to the survey will be considered in making the accreditation decision. The information presented will not be debated with the reporting individual. Requests for presentation must be received at least two weeks prior to the survey in order to allow sufficient time to schedule the presentations. "This is an important milestone in the continuing success of our military treatment facility," said Col. Rudy Cachuela, 779 MDG commander. "We have an unwavering commitment to providing the highest quality care to our patients, and the same high level of conduct in our business practices." This was validated in the MTF's May 2011 score of "Outstanding" per AFIA's Health Services Inspection. "Accreditation by the AAAHC would be further proof of this commitment, and signifies that a MTF meets the rigorous standards of a nationally recognized third party. After the MDG's inpatient beds close for BRAC on Sept. 15, 2011, AAAHC accreditation will replace the MTF's current accreditation by the Joint Commission," he noted. Over 3,000 ambulatory health care organizations across the United States are accredited by AAAHC. Accreditation underscores a facility's long-standing dedication to providing the highest possible levels of quality care to the patients it serves. Ambulatory health care organizations seeking accreditation by the AAAHC undergo an extensive on-site, peer-based survey of its facilities and services. Not all ambulatory health care organizations seek accreditation; not all undergoing the on-site survey are granted accreditation. Requests for public information presentations or reporting of pertinent and valid information may be communicated in writing or by telephone to AAAHC at the following address and telephone number: Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. 5250 Old Orchard Road, Suite 200 Skokie, IL 60077 Telephone (847) 853-6060 AAAHC FAX: 847/ 853-9028. Local inquiries for the 779 MDG should be directed to: Elaine Wilhelm-Hass Director, Quality/Accreditation: (240) 857-6668