82nd MDG comes through simultaneous inspections with flying colors

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Tonnette Thompson
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The 82nd Medical Group, fresh from earning an overall "Excellent" on their most recent Air Force Inspection Agency Health Services Inspection, has received some more good news.

It has recently earned a full three-year accreditation from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, which conducted its inspection the same week as the HSI, March 5-9.

The AAAHC evaluated the 82nd MDG's delivery of health care in accordance with established national standards - in essence, comparing the group's care to that offered by civilian health care systems across the United States. In granting accreditation, the 82nd MDG can boast a high commitment of resources, time and effort in providing quality care to patients.

"It is reassuring to our staff and patients to know that an outside agency has recognized the high quality of care that we strive to provide here at Team Sheppard," said Col. James King, 82nd MDG commander.

Among the areas AAAHC focused on were: patient rights and responsibilities, leadership and government, credentialing and privileging, quality of care, risk management, clinical records and health information, facilities and environment, operating room and anesthesia services, dental services, pharmaceutical services, lab radiology and diagnostic imaging services, employee and occupational health services, and health education and wellness.

"It was group synergy that pulled the team together," said Lt. Col. Janice Wallace, 82nd MDG deputy commander. "This accreditation will only solidify our team even more, and I believe that will lead to even better quality care."

The HSI and AAAHC always occur simultaneously, every three years. The HSI inspection focused on the 82nd MDG's ability to perform its mission in both wartime and peacetime situations.

In attempting to comply with both inspections, the 82nd MDG had to meet approximately 1,400 criteria.