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February 10, 2024

What You Need to Know About CARF Accreditation: What is it, and Why Does it matter?

In today’s wired and tech-savvy world, we belong to an era of individuals that are finally learning to do their homework. With the integration of technology into nearly every aspect of our lives, rarely will we go to a new restaurant or make a large purchase without first reading reviews online, let alone make a choice about what organization to entrust with something as important as our sobriety, or journey towards improved mental health. Carefully researching and selecting our options are essential steps to finding the services that fit our needs.  

Often, we look to trusted reviewers to help us make these types of high-stakes decisions and want to be ensured that we are in good hands each step along the way. While deciding where next to eat, or whether or not to buy that new air fryer, there requires some thought and planning, decisions about behavioral healthcare should not be left to amateur reviewers. This is the importance of accrediting bodies such as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) that have streamlined the process of vetting organizations to ensure their credibility.

When you are a behavioral health organization, the seal of accomplishment that accompanies a CARF accreditation is an aspirational beacon proclaiming to those who view your site online that you have endured the rigorous accreditation process in order to provide them with a higher level of care and continue to meet expectations year after year. 

Whether you are a consumer looking to learn a bit more about CARF, or an executive still undecided about whether you will elevate your practice to be in compliance with CARF standards of practice, the aim of this article is to provide a framework of understanding for all things CARF. 

What is CARF?

CARF International, officially the “Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities”, is an independent, nonprofit organization that serves as an accrediting body in the health and human services industry in the states and worldwide. Their mission is to advance the quality of services existing today that range from programs for children and youth to employment to treatment for opioid addiction. Another large area of focus is in “Aging Services”, and evaluating Continuing Care Retirement Facilities. 

All CARF-accredited service providers have earned recognition for their compliance with the company’s leading-edge set of standards, especially as it relates to business and service delivery practices. The standards referenced have been developed collaboratively over 50 plus years across disciplines and updated regularly based on input from professionals and consumers alike. Working from this framework, it is CARF’s role to consult and advise health and human service organizations to help improve their service delivery and quality. Earning accreditation signifies that the organization has demonstrated compliance with these standards, and remains committed to continuous quality improvement, as one’s status is periodically evaluated with an on-site visit and reviewed annually. 

CARF International has been an accrediting body since 1966, but was officially recognized in 2001 by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) for its work related to opioid treatment programs, and expanding services in 2013 to also include standards for eating disorder treatment.  

What is the difference between a facility with CARF accreditation and one without?

In the world of human service organizations, accreditation is more important now than ever. Consumers today want to make educated choices about their health care, and take seriously the quality of service provided to them. More and more, consumers are looking for accredited organizations as leaders in the field and as a sign of quality. An agency’s commitment to accreditation sends a message to consumers that the organization in question is committed to encouraging feedback, continuous improvement through the implementation of updated practices that reflect the cultural landscape, and to serving the needs of the community. 

What is the CARF Accreditation process?

The entire CARF accreditation process can be quite lengthy, lasting about 9-12 months for first-time applicants. Undergoing this tenuous and arduous process truly demonstrates the facility’s commitment to its community, working towards the well-deserved reward of achieving accreditation status.

  1. After a service provider commits to accreditation, the process begins with a thorough internal examination of its programs and business practices and how they compare to CARF standards. 
  2. The organization will next seek to schedule an on-site survey with the CARF team of expert practitioners in order to evaluate their performance and organizational practices and whether they truly abide by the applicable standards. CARF is unique in its approach as consultative rather than inspective, and ultimate desire to improve the provider’s operations and service delivery. Included also in this portion of the process are interviews of staff, persons served, and their families. 
  3. In the time following the on-site survey, the CARF team will provide a written report of their findings, including identified strengths, as well as areas for improvement. Depending on the data collected, they will render a decision regarding accreditation and may require updates to be implemented and written notice be issued upon doing so. 
  4. While the accreditation period may last 1-3 years, an Annual Conformance to Quality Report is required each year to demonstrate ongoing compliance. 

Is the accreditation process worth the effort it takes?

Although it can be a trying and difficult process in order to update your organization’s policies to be in line with CARF standards, the answer is yes. Ultimately, the process is rewarding, especially in that CARF will work with you in an effort to enact its mission of advancing the quality of services available today and they are determined to help elevate your practice and implementation. 

During the on-site survey, using their hallmark “consultive” approach, specialists will work with you to offer feedback and suggestions regarding meeting the standards and prioritizing accountability and quality. With over 50 years of experience, this nuanced approach will also allow for the standards to reflect your organization’s unique mission, vision, and identity. 

While it may not be as simple as paying dues and obtaining a certificate, CARF accreditation is much more than a simple certificate on the wall. Rather, it is a testament to the dedication of your agency and staff in their efforts to improve efficiency and provide the highest quality of care for your clients or residents. Insurance companies and third-party payers are likely to respond well to organizations with CARF accreditation and view their services as a better risk. 

What are the benefits of accreditation for a provider?

When you are an organization considering updating your practice, you’ll want to consider how alignment with CARF standards will reflect positively on your commitment to improve service delivery, manage risk, and distinguish yourself from the competition.
Other reasons to consider CARF include:

  • Joining the ranks of those who have aligned their practice to meet internationally accepted standards.
  • Receiving guidance in developing (or refining) your person-centered and individualized approach to services and outcomes.
  • Creating opportunities for feedback and improved communication with those you aim to serve.
  • Learning responsible management techniques that are efficient and cost-effective.
  • Demonstrating accountability to funding sources, referral agencies, and the community.
  • Providing evidence of quality and seeking transparency about the management of federal, state, provincial and local government’s funding
  • Using accreditation status as a tool to market programs and services 
  • Accessing support from CARF during and after the accreditation process, through consultation, publications, conferences, training opportunities, and newsletters
  • Assurance to the community that your organization is committed to providing the best quality of care possible and is consistently putting the needs of those you service at the center of everything you do, respecting their rights and individuality.
  • In addition, a recent review of CARF-accredited programs found the following average changes in the time period between their first and latest survey:
  • 26% increase in persons served annually
  • 37% increase in conformance to quality standards
  • 37% increase in annual budget dollars

Alleva can work with you to achieve or maintain that all-important CARF accreditation.

As the friendliest EMR platform around, Alleva can help you to elevate your practice in all the ways that really count, so you can spend more time doing what you do best, serving those in your care. When you partner with Alleva and digitize your practice, sleep soundly knowing that you have all the tools at your disposal to keep yourself up to date and compliant with CARF standards, in a format that is meant to endure. Your investment will be in the kind of software that will grow with you and our ever-changing industry. 

Alleva offers fully customizable Forms Management to allow for the creation and updating of consents and policies, all built and accessible within your own portal. Additionally, Alleva boasts a multitude of tracking methods to allow for data collection for continued compliance and improvement, like initial medication count for programs that employ med management. 

We have continued success helping our clients navigate the CARF accreditation process within Alleva and access other features that help with the constant evolution in this industry. If you want to learn more about how Alleva can work for you, request a demo today!

Want to Learn More?

https://helloalleva.com/a-guide-to-the-joint-commission-what-is-it-and-why-does-it-matter

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February 2, 2024

From Overwhelmed to Organized: Optimize Task Management with Alleva EMR for Behavioral Health

Trust Alleva to optimize your task management system and allow you to dedicate more time to serving those in your care.

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December 1, 2023

How to Safeguard Your Mental Health this Holiday Season

The holiday season, known for its mirth and festivities, can often be stressful, leading to an increase in mental health challenges. Nearly 38% of people experience elevated stress levels during this period, contributing to physical illness, depression, anxiety, among others.

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September 1, 2023

Helping A Loved One Who is Struggling: A Guide to Offering Support and Understanding

Remember that being there for someone does not mean having all the answers or fixing their problems, but rather showing compassion and support during their difficult times. Your kindness and empathy can go a long way in making a significant difference in their life and fostering a stronger bond between you both.

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July 1, 2023

Alleva Q2 Product Updates

Quarterly Report & Product Update for Quarter 2 (Apr - June 2023)

June 2023

Shift Rounds Now in Chronological Order: When viewing the Shift Rounds history of a client in the Client Detail Report, the rounds have been placed in proper, chronological order for better user consumption.

Client MAR sort and filter: On a client MAR, there are new sort and filtering options so that you can sort by scheduled time or medication name.   You can choose to show or hide the medication instructions and also choose to separate discontinued medications from active or incorporate with active medications.

MAY 2023

New Timezone Option for Text/Email Reminders: We added the option to save the timezone of a Prospect or Client. This new dropdown can be found on the Add Prospect page or in the Client's Update Info page. If a timezone is selected, they will get their text/email reminders in that timezone. This will allow for more accurate appointment reminders for clients that might be in a different timezone than the facility. If it is not filled out, then the text/email reminders will default to the facility timezone.

Medications - New Setting to Enable/Disable Max Dosage Override for PRN Frequency: In Settings -> Medication Settings, there is now the option to enable/disable the newly added feature of PRN Frequency Override. When enabled, users will have the ability to override PRN Frequency and administer medication.

Medications - Medication Administration Window: In Settings -> Medication Settings, there is an option to have Alleva warn you from administering medication outside the allowable time indicated.

Medications - Add medication orders via the  Progress Note and Individual Session: Users now have the ability to order medication via the Progress Note or note of an Individual Session. To turn it on for a specific note type, it has the familiar process already used for configuring your notes. Go to Settings -> Master Dropdowns -> Individual/Progress Note and check the box for Medication Orders. This is the same workflow used to add the ASAM, MSE, PHQ-9, etc. to the Individual/Progress Note.

Additional options for Countries and States: More countries and their respective states have been added to accommodate more users and/or clients and their demographics.

Ability to change your password: We have added the ability to change your password. To do so, go to 'My Profile' at the top left by clicking on the three vertical dots.

NPI and DEA added to print version of Doctors Orders: The NPI and DEA numbers of the medical provider included in a Doctor's Order have been added to the print version of the ord

APRIL 2023

Medications - Displaying medication indication: The indication for a med is now displayed throughout the EMR when viewing a client's medication information.

Medications - Updated PRN Daily to only allow 1 administration per 24 hours: We have added an extra safety measure to only allow one administration of a med for the day.

Medications - Display dosage info: Medication dosage information has been added to more locations so that you can remember the exact dosage that you initially selected.

Updated signature labels for Doctor's Orders: We have updated the labels for the different signature types for Doctor's Orders. For example, you can now see who created the order, who fulfilled the order, and who was the reviewer for the order.

Username creation validation: When creating users, we updated our validation rules so that usernames cannot be created with certain special characters. If a special character was used, the potential of running into a problem with Zoom and/or ePrescribe increased.

"Other" option in Release of Information: It was requested to include a custom "Other" option on the ROI screen. This can be found in the section Information will be released via the following methods.

Whenever new features are released, we announce the updates in the system. You can find past release notes here. If you want more information on key features, reach out. We can help you implement the release into your workflow if needed.

We’ve also launched our LMS, Alleva University, to facilitate onboarding. Access 24/7 training and explore new feature updates here.

Our support center is available if you ever need assistance. When you contact us, an open ticket is created in our system to ensure the issue is resolved as quickly and seamlessly as possible. We invite you to reach out and let us know what’s working and where we can improve. 

Find updated product release notes here.

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May 7, 2023

Welcome to Alleva!

You've signed on. You're part of the team. Now what?

It's time to get to know us better, and lucky for you, we're an open book. (Read more about us here.)

You can rely on Alleva for all your technological needs. We're proud of what we've built to support the people on the front lines of behavioral health. When charting is quick and easy, you can focus your time and effort on providing the best possible care. With better tools for compliance and reporting, you can feel confident in your operation's growth and success.

We're proud to offer the latest and greatest technology to make your life easier and help your company to thrive!

Here are some key features you'll want to get to know right away:

  • Say Hello to Tasks
    • "Tasks" is our compliance driver. It's an automated list that displays your To-Dos so you know where to dive in. 
    • Learn more about your dashboard's “My Tasks” widget here.
  • Say Hello to Insights
    • Make your EMR data work for you. You can track your program’s progress and treatment efficacy with advanced, real-time data. Visual graphs and easy reporting features will help you make better business decisions.
    • Learn how to see the metrics you care about here.
  • Say Hello to our Client/Family Portal
    • Discover seamless care coordination from anywhere.
    • Clients and their loved ones can send secure messages, view calendars, join telehealth sessions, sign consents, and more!
    • Send mass announcements to notify alums of upcoming events and keep family members in the loop.
  • Say Hello to the Alleva Connect App
    • Increase engagement with your clients and maintain insight into their well-being.
    • Download the Connect App for your mobile device: Android or iPhone.
  • Say Hello to Telehealth
    • You can access built-in, HIPAA-compliant telehealth from the Scheduler with one click.
    • All invited parties will be automatically notified of meeting times and provided links to join. 

Fun Fact: A study found that if clients get a text message with a link to the event fifteen minutes before it starts, they're 50% more likely to attend. Alleva offers a built-in text reminder feature that automatically pings invitees one day before, one hour prior, and fifteen minutes before the event.

  • Say Hello to Medications
    • Our pharmacy-integrated medication management tool saves time and keeps track of inventory to optimize your workflows.

But wait—there's more! Learn all the ins and outs of our platform at your convenience with Alleva University. You'll have 24/7 access to instructional videos and step-by-step instructions on key topics and features. You can even get Alleva certified.

Thanks again for joining the Alleva team. We're excited to get to know you better, too!

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September 16, 2022

Inside Outdoor Wilderness Therapy

Many people have been turning towards Outdoor Wilderness Therapy programs in recent years. They prove an effective approach to treatment and offer a unique experience for many seeking outside-the-box treatment plans. But how does this work, and what can a participant expect? 

“Go outside” 

A phrase parents and guardians may be sick of saying at this point. But for those whose adolescents and young adults struggle with mental health, behavioral health, and substance abuse, this phrase takes on a new meaning. Outdoor Wilderness Therapy offers prolonged care through a group setting, ensuring that loved ones are safe and in good hands while also experiencing the wilderness and preserving a sense of adventure.

Researchers are working to provide clinical evidence of the effectiveness of outdoor and adventure therapy, and the results are promising. In a study commissioned by Redcliff Ascent, Dr. Steven Aldana cited that “91.4% experienced clinically significant improvement.” This study found the rate of recovery for Outdoor Wilderness Therapy programs to be twice that of other treatment methods.

This outdoor approach has been greatly effective, but it is important to know what this type of treatment really is. Wilderness Therapy is more than just the stereotypical campfire songs and s’mores. So, how are Wilderness therapies conducted?

Models

Two general models characterize the approaches to Wilderness Therapy- Contained and Continuous Flow. The contained flow model involves the same group of clients and guides living with and working together for up to three weeks during wilderness expeditions. In this model, the staff includes trained therapists and guides paired with a group of clients based on an assessment of the clients’ needs, concerns, and diagnoses.

On the other hand, the continuous flow model focuses on a rotation of therapy clients and staff members revolving around the readiness for discharge based on the therapeutic progress of clients. This method is similar to groups in psychiatric settings wherein the group continues to meet on a consistent basis, while participants in the group change over time as they make progress. The time frame for continuous flow groups may depend on the program, but typically lasts up to eight weeks. To promote safe care practices for staff, the continuous care model uses a rotation schedule of a number of days or weeks on and days or weeks off. 

Licensed therapists work with clients and staff in both contained and continuous flow models. Sessions are conducted either on-site (nomadically) or at “base camps” depending on how expeditions are conducted. Both contained and continuous flow models rely on patients’ interactions with each other and the wilderness to support and enhance their self-esteem, emotional regulation, positive mindsets, and communication skills.

Family Follow Through

A potentially overlooked portion of Wilderness Therapy is the necessary involvement of family or caregivers. While clients address their personal presenting concerns, these concerns often have roots in family relationships. In order for clients to make lasting progress, their loved ones must learn to make home a place to support the lasting care of the client through therapeutic intervention.

Often, clients cannot maintain positive changes unless their support system helps reinforce the changes made. This is especially true for the adolescent and young adult demographic who primarily frequent Wilderness Therapy. 

Difficulties

While evidence grows in support of Wilderness Therapy, challenges persist with funding, communication, and documentation in this outdoor setting. 

As with any therapeutic approach, funding may present a concern for practitioners, clients, families, and funding agencies. Families may find these programs quite difficult to afford if they are not covered by traditional insurance plans. Grants and scholarships may exist for these programs. However, acceptance for such funding options may be competitive. 

In addition, a common concern for therapy is the use of remote treatment teams to provide services. Wilderness Therapy presents the unique challenge of the treatment team being scattered throughout wilderness settings and having to provide for both the treatment and physical needs of patients. Consequently, therapists and expedition staff must stay in frequent communication about the strategies used in sessions and on the expeditions. 

Finally, the documentation of accurate records of client progress help justify the effectiveness of Wilderness Therapy. Documentation is critical because it helps assure that the methods of treatment on these expeditions are empirically based and effective.

The Solution

Although it may not seem so, advanced technology platforms can eliminate all of these concerns. Wilderness programs that have partnered with an EMR platform, such as Alleva, find it easier to keep track of clients, write and upload notes, engage with the team via the communication log, and access digital copies of all important documents. 

Through our commitment to being the friendliest EMR on the market, Alleva is changing the Wilderness Therapy game. Our versatility, state of the art cloud technology, and exceptional customer service make us the top choice for care providers and behavioral health facilities, no matter where they are located. Sleep soundly knowing that with Alleva on your team, you can get back to doing what you do best. Reach out today, and request a free demo!

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July 27, 2022

The Comeback Story: How Alleva helps Clearfork Academy meet its strategic business goals.

Austin Davis, founder and CEO of Clearfork Academy, shares his journey with Alleva, from when the company was first formed to their partnership today. Alleva's EMR has become the backbone of its infrastructure, helping the company grow and meet its goals.

Clearfork Academy is a Christ-centered residential treatment program for youth between the ages of 13 and 18 years old who struggle with substance abuse or addiction and the accompanying mental health and behavioral issues. They began using Alleva EMR when they first opened their two facilities in Texas but, after a while, parted ways. Then they "came back home" to Alleva. Listen to Austin Davis talk about the growth he's seen in Alleva over the years and how using the platform has helped their company succeed.

Alleva's Electronic Medical Records software solution offers the latest technology to therapists, improves the quality of their work, and relieves stress. Our intuitive, user-friendly platform eases the workflow for those providing care, so they have more time to do what they do best--serving their clients and saving lives.

Alleva's Insights feature helped Clearfork Academy to make better business decisions as their company grew. With advanced, real-time data, our clients are able to track their health center’s progress and efficiency. Customized charts make reporting a breeze. We help behavioral health clinics to meet their strategic business goals.

Let us walk you through it with a quick, hassle-free demo.

No more headaches. No more hassles.

Alleva Insights is easy and automated.

Say hello to solutions. helloalleva.com

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July 8, 2022

Why Relapse?

After beating the odds and conquering the demons of addiction, why would anybody voluntarily choose to return to their previous self-destructive state? It is not uncommon for those in recovery to experience sobriety for a long period of time, and on an impulse restart the self-destructive cycle. This is what we call relapse.

Although the behavior may seem inexplicable, understanding brain chemistry sheds some light on the situation. Because the effects of drugs are so powerful, it changes the brain structure and chemistry of the user. Prolonged usage of such addictive substances leads to a reprioritization of what the brain ranks as important. With time the addict’s brain can even prioritize the use of the drug above natural survival responses such as eating and sleeping.  The addict’s brain convinces itself that the consumption of the drug is more important than their life.

Our survival responses are powerful, to say the least. We are hard-wired to do whatever it takes to ensure the preservation of our lives. I once witnessed a mouse stuck in a trap chew off its own arm to escape. Just like the mouse, any of us would go to undeniably extreme measures to survive in a life-threatening situation.

Because of the effects of reprioritization, addicts will go to similarly extreme measures to ensure they can continue the usage of their substance. In short, addiction knows no limits. There is no price too expensive, no situation too dangerous, and no risk too great. Even after enjoying years of sobriety, there is still a danger of relapse. This is why addiction treatment must extend beyond the sphere of treatment centers. Truly, quitting the use of the drug is just the first step.

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May 31, 2022

Alleva’s Telehealth Solution Which Enables HIPAA Compliance Surpasses 30 Million Minutes of Essential Care, Improving Mental Health Outcomes

Behavioral Health facilities using Alleva's telehealth feature are able to reach thousands of isolated clients in despair using their built-in Zoom Video technology.

LAGUNA NIGUEL, Calif. (PRWEB) May 20, 2022-- In the wake of COVID-19, the U.S. not only faces a devastating death toll of over 980,000 lives lost from the virus but a staggering number of over 100,000 additional “deaths of despair” from alcohol abuse, drug overdoses, and suicide. This is a 28.5% increase in overdose cases from before the pandemic. With the burden on behavioral health facilities continuing to build, Alleva teamed up with Zoom Video Communications, Inc. in 2017 to offer a comprehensive telehealth solution that enables behavioral healthcare companies to meet HIPAA compliance requirements while delivering exceptional care.

Even before the pandemic, Alleva recognized the utility of Zoom’s unified communications platform and its application for healthcare facilities. Since its implementation, clinicians have been able to stay in contact with their clients who are unable to attend in-person sessions and those who prefer remote treatment. Before Covid, Alleva's customers averaged around 60 thousand telehealth minutes a month, but in April of 2020, and the onset of pandemic restrictions, that number jumped to almost 2 million minutes a month. Even as Covid risks have diminished, telehealth has not tapered off.

“The demand for telehealth shows no signs of slowing,” said Paul Magnaghi, Global ISV Program Leader, Zoom. “It’s crucial to provide a simple, frictionless, and secure experience for everyone involved–from provider to patient. Our platform incorporates security controls to help enable customers to satisfy the HIPAA Security Rule. We are pleased to have Alleva join Zoom’s ISV Partner Program and provide a simple and quick way for people to get connected to the care they need.” With the integration of Zoom’s convenient technology and the Alleva EMR, treatment centers can sync calendar appointments, and send invitations and reminders via texts directly to the Alleva app on their client’s cellphone, all while enabling HIPPA compliance.

Steven McCall, CEO of Alleva, said, "The fact that we were among the first EMR platforms to add the telehealth feature back in 2017 meant that we were agile and responsive when clinicians' circumstances and needs changed. Alleva is all about offering the latest technology and making life easier for caregivers.”

Alleva’s telehealth feature has allowed substance abuse and behavioral specialists to connect to their clients during increasingly challenging times. With options for individual, group, family, and admissions sessions, the telehealth feature allows people to connect effortlessly through digital means, with room for continued innovation. Moving forward, Alleva is looking to expand their solutions to further streamline communication and connect substance abuse specialists to those who need it.

For more information about Alleva, its built-in telehealth solutions, and how its solutions are shaping the behavioral healthcare industry, visit HelloAlleva.com.

About Alleva

Alleva provides world-class software to the behavioral health industry. Made up of a team of licensed therapists, industry professionals, and experienced software developers, they seek to use their industry background and passion to help the helpers give better care by providing them with supportive technology.

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Copyright 2019 - Alleva Corp. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright 2019 - Alleva Corp. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright 2019 - Alleva Corp. All Rights Reserved.