By Linda Prendez, On-line Forty-Niner May 8, 1997
When accreditation teams conducted an on-site review of Student Health Services in February, Director Renee Twigg said she thought that the visit was successful. Two months later, her prediction was finally confirmed.
The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Medicine has acknowledged that the Cal State Long Beach medical facility rises to high standards of quality by granting the center a renewal on its accreditation.
Twigg, who was appointed as director this year, credits the veteran staff for Health Services' success.
"The Student Health Center staff should be commended for the substantial amount of dedication they have put forth for the past three years," Twigg said.
The accreditation association reviews medical centers on every aspect of their facilities, from administration to the caliber of health care provided. The agencies awarded Health Services with the maximum length of accreditation - three years.
The agencies were particularly impressed by Health Services for its Continuous Quality Assessment Committee, saying it was "a dedicated team of members who are enthusiastic about the quality process."
The committee, which is composed of various center employees, meets bimonthly to evaluate and suggest improvements for center programs and services.
Dr. Myron Mitzenmacher, chairman of the assessment committee said the center's mission is "to provide excellent service for students."
"Working for an accreditation makes sure that we meet the expectations of people outside the center who can also suggest other improvements," Mitzenmacher said.
The agencies made minimal recommendations this year, suggesting that the center post more emergency exit signs. The health center safety committee has already ordered more signs.
Dr. Rebecca Wills, chief physician at Health Services, said she is proud of the center's consistent effort to meet the expectations of qualified medical judges. The center is like a second home to her. She has worked there for 16 years.
"I am very pleased to be part of an organization that is so interested in the quality of services it provides for its students," Wills said, "especially because many students don't have other options for health care."
"I think we get better every year," she said.
In a formal report, the accreditation review team praised Health Services for its commitment to students, recognizing its willingness to gather student input.
Health Services provides a monthly questionnaire for students to relay their comments, grievances and suggestions.
Grievances against Health Services seem to be uncommon. Mitzenmacher said the comments he has heard are mostly positive. "Students have good experiences here. We want to see that continue," Mitzenmacher said.
Health Services has been re-accredited constantly since March of 1991, when it first applied for accreditation.
According to Mitzenmacher, only recently have medical agencies reviewed student health centers for accreditation. He said it caught on in the late 1980's.
"It has become a significant part of all fields to watch over the quality of products provided," Mitzenmacher said.
"[the accreditation means] this institution functions at standards that are highly acceptable to the community in general."