Healthcare Accreditation
Healthcare accreditation is an official recognition that a healthcare facility — such as a hospital, medical center, or clinic — meets defined standards of quality and patient safety.
In Saudi Arabia, this process is carried out by an independent national body called the Saudi Central Board for Accreditation of Healthcare Institutions (CBAHI).
CBAHI conducts structured assessments that include document reviews, staff interviews, on-site visits, and tracer evaluations to ensure that healthcare organizations follow safe, effective, and organized practices.
When a facility meets the required standards, it receives an official accreditation certificate valid for a certain period — after which the facility is re-evaluated to maintain its accredited status.
Key Benefits of Healthcare Accreditation
Greater Trust and Credibility
Accreditation tells patients and the public:“This facility is safe, organized, and committed to quality care.”It builds confidence not only among patients but also with insurance companies
Organized and Transparent Operations
Every department operates under clear policies and procedures, ensuring consistency and accountability. Workflows are standardized — no improvisation, no confusion — just professional structure and control.
Patient Safety Comes First
CBAHI standards focus heavily on reducing medical errors, improving medication management, infection prevention, and overall patient safety.
That means fewer incidents… and safer care for everyone.
Continuous Staff Development
Accreditation encourages hospitals to provide ongoing training for all staff — from physicians and nurses to administrative teams — to keep them updated with best practices and new healthcare standards.
A Requirement for Licensing and Renewal
In Saudi Arabia, most healthcare facilities must obtain CBAHI accreditation to renew their operating license from the Ministry of Health. So accreditation is not a luxury — it’s a regulatory necessity for continuity and compliance.
Stronger Reputation and Competitive Advantage
Accredited facilities stand out in the market with stronger reputations, better credibility, and higher chances to secure government or insurance contracts.
Accreditation becomes a true mark of trust and quality.
Examples of Accredited Healthcare Facilities in Saudi Arabia
- International Medical Center (IMC) – Jeddah: successfully renewed its CBAHI accreditation multiple times.
- Security Forces Hospital – Dammam: reaccredited after meeting all quality and safety standards.
- Al Kahhal Eye Specialist Hospital – Riyadh: earned CBAHI accreditation after improving infection control and medication systems.
- Professional Care Medical Complex – Jazan: awarded CBAHI accreditation valid through 2027.
- These examples demonstrate that accreditation is not just a certificate — it’s a real, measurable transformation in healthcare quality across the Kingdom.
How VQT Helps You Achieve Accreditation
- Gap Analysis – Assessing the current situation against CBAHI standards.
- Policy & Procedure Development – Preparing all required quality documentation.
- Staff Training & Awareness – Building internal capability to maintain compliance.
- Mock Survey – Conducting a trial evaluation before the official survey visit.
- Accreditation Project Management – Guiding the process from start to certificate.
- Post-Accreditation Support – Ensuring sustained performance and continuous improvement.