Jordan Health Accreditation Program celebrates its 8 year 'journey' towards improving quality in healthcare

Mr. Ed Chappy, the project Director of JHAP managed by University Research Co. (URC), pointed out in his remarks that "Quality is a journey not a destination." He then cited the various activities and events that marked the quality improvement journey in Jordan.

Mr. Chappy added "JHAP has worked closely with the key health related entities in Jordan including the Ministry of Health, Royal Medical Services, and the private sector, to identify the exact needs and the way forward. The focus was chosen to be on healthcare accreditation based on the belief that quality improvement is necessary in all sectors in order to raise the quality and safety of the entire health system in Jordan."

The end-of-project event went on to include testimonials of many whom have been involved in JHAP's work and who have benefited from the program, including speakers from the MOH , RMS, private sector, various accredited hospitals, accredited surveyors, all of whom recognized the value of this program to Jordan.

Ms. Sarah Blanding, USAID/Head of the Population and Health section, , also praised the collaborative success of JHAP, saying "There can be no doubt that USAID projects like this one together with the various health sector organizations involved have made great progress over the years to improve the quality and safety of health care services in Jordan."

One aspect of the various milestones JHAP accomplished was working with task forces from 17 pilot hospitals from the public, private, and military sectors to establish the first set of hospital standards. Also contributing to the achievement of its major outcome in Jordan was the establishment of the first Arab accreditation agency in the region to award accreditation and sustain continuous quality improvement.

JHAP's project director, Mr. Ed Chappy added: "Through the strong support of USAID and the tremendous collaboration and vision of all the project's national partners, we were able to implement an exciting and unique program that accomplished its goal of a healthier Jordan and we are certain that the project's goals and noble message will continue with the continuation of HCAC."

While JHAP officially closes on March 17, 2013, USAID and the Government of Jordan are sure that the journey will continue through The Health Care Accreditation Council, HCAC, to award accreditation and sustain continuous quality improvement in the kingdom.