MPCA News

Partnership Health Center receives full accreditation from JCAHO

Partnership Health Center, Missoula's Community Health Center, received full accreditation from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) after a site survey conducted in November, 2001.

By asking for accreditation, Partnership Health Center agreed to be measured against national standards set by health care professionals. The primary care and dental clinics at Partnership Health Center received high marks for the high quality of patient care provided. The JCAHO surveyors praised Partnership Health Center's staff, noting respectful treatment of clients and a positive esprit de corps.

Of Partnership Health Center's 6,000 current patients, 78% are uninsured. Partnership Health Center provides high quality primary care services including check-ups, care for chronic diseases, on-site pharmacy, breast and cervical health, mental health services, dental care, nutritional counseling and wellness education to the underserved in Missoula and the surrounding area.

JCAHO has overseen health care quality for over 50 years. A facility accredited by JCAHO must continue to meet rigorous standards regarding health care delivery, practices, safety and sound administration. JCAHO develops its standards in consultation with health care experts, providers, measurement experts and consumers.

Partnership Health Center is the second Montana Community Health Center to be accredited by JCAHO. The Deering Clinic Community Health Center in Billings, MT, was accredited in 1999.