Is Accreditation of Health Care Facilities: A Boon or A Bane?

Abstract

Whenever a patient enters a health care facility of any level to undergo a surgical procedure or selects a pediatrician for their newborn or wants management of his or her diabetes or seeks any sort of clinical treatment or advice, choice of the health care facility matters. In Pakistan there is a clear divide between those patients who are educated and know about healthcare and standards i.e the educated class and those who are unaware and have faith in the name doctor more than the credentials of the person advertising the word doctor; but with time the awareness of people is increasing and the internet has played a vital role in this. Now the patient and their families feel empowered to ask the treating doctor or specialist questions, not only about his or her personal credentials and training, but also about the practice as a whole and expect the highest possible care.