Student Health Center Receives AAAHC Accreditation

September 08, 2010

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. (Sept. 8, 2010) -- SUNY Plattsburgh’s Center for Student Health and Psychological Services has achieved accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care. Such accreditation distinguishes this outpatient surgical center as one that provides the highest quality of care to its patients. Status as an accredited organization means the center has met nationally recognized standards for the provision of quality health care, set by the AAAHC.

“We believe our students deserve the best,” said Dr. Kathleen Camelo, director of the center. “Accreditation shows our commitment to providing the highest level of quality care to the students, our patients. It is proof of this commitment and signifies that we have met the rigorous standards of a nationally recognized third party.”

Organizations seeking accreditation by the AAAHC undergo an extensive self-assessment and on-site survey by the association’s expert surveyors – volunteer physicians, nurses, and administrators who are actively involved in ambulatory health care. The survey is consultative and educational, presenting best practices to help an organization improve its care and services.

“Going through the process challenged us to find better ways to serve our patients, and it is a constant reminder that our responsibility is to our patients and the quality of care we provide,” Camelo said.

“I am very proud of all the hard work of Susan Sand, our accreditation coordinator, and the entire staff. Without a collaborative team approach we would never have achieved this goal,” she added.

SUNY Plattsburgh’s student health center provides a wide range of services, including a walk-in clinic, psychological counseling, nutritional advice and educational programs.