Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island granted expedited COA reaccreditation

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island was recently reaccredited by the Council on Accreditation for a period of four years for “achieving the highest standards of professional practice for the services it provides.” The Devereux center first received COA accreditation in 2009.

The Council on Accreditation (COA) is an international human service accrediting organization. Founded in 1977 by the Child Welfare League of America and Family Service America (now the Alliance for Strong Families and Communities), its mission is to partner with human service organizations worldwide to improve service delivery outcomes by developing, applying and promoting accreditation standards.

In a letter from COA President and CEO Richard Klarberg, he stated: “COA’s program of quality improvement is designed to identify providers that have met high performance standards and have made a commitment to their stakeholders to deliver the very best quality services. COA is proud to recognize Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Massachusetts and Rhode Island as one of these outstanding providers, and we wish you the very best in your continuing work with the individuals you serve.”

A fast-tracked reaccreditation

Devereux’s reaccreditation was “fast tracked,” meaning the process was expedited since the organization had been in full compliance with COA fundamental practice standards since its reaccreditation in in 2014.

“We are thrilled to be reaccredited by COA. And the expedited process – which is no easy feat -- is a tribute to our outstanding staff,” said Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island Executive Director Kerry Ann Goldsmith. “We are proud to be recognized for our high standards, and we believe the individuals and families served deserve nothing but the very best programs, services and supports.”

The accreditation process

The process of obtaining COA accreditation is comprehensive and is designed to ensure the credibility and integrity of the organization as a whole. Organizations are evaluated against best-practice standards, which COA developed with input from a wide range of service providers, experts, policymakers, consumers and other stakeholders. COA’s goal is to improve service delivery outcomes by developing, applying, and promoting comprehensive accreditation standards.

For Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the reaccreditation process included regular reviews to ensure the highest quality standards were being employed. Once the reaccreditation paperwork was submitted, a team of three COA surveyors visited Devereux’s campus to examine its operations – from programs for youth served, to staff capabilities and interactions, to facilities upkeep, and to safety and maintenance. Each surveyor had multiple areas to examine with hundreds of standards to be applied to each area.

“The process is truly comprehensive,” said Goldsmith. “COA reviewers look for the highest quality standards for every facet of the operation, including: programs, finances, governance, residential and group living facilities, and even the buildings themselves. The process is humbling, but it also is amazing to hear such positive feedback from the review team. It was also wonderful to receive glowing reviews about our staff and their dedication to making a difference in young people’s lives.”

About Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island

Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island provides individualized treatment for children, adolescents and young adults with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences, including autism spectrum disorders.

Learn about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

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