What Impact Does Accreditation Have on Workplaces? A Qualitative Study to Explore the Perceptions of Healthcare Professionals About the Process of Accreditation

Abstract

Aim: This study seeks to explore the emerging psychosocial risks of healthcare accreditation in workplaces and to understand
healthcare professionals’ perceptions about work demands and the unexpected consequences such accreditation had placed upon
them.
Methods: Twenty-seven semi-structured interviews and four focus group discussions were conducted with a variety of healthcare
professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals. The study was conducted in three public
hospitals and a network of primary healthcare centers in the United Arab Emirates. Interviews and focus group discussions were
transcribed and analyzed using a thematic analysis approach.
Results: The results have shown that a number of psychosocial risks were prevalent during the course of accreditation. Healthcare
professionals faced increased work demands during such a process including increased working hours, increased working pace,
perceived time pressure, and conflicted information. Such demands were perceived to influence their health and their families and
patients’ care. In contrast, teamwork and co-worker support were vital to mitigate the effect of such demands.
Implications: This study has identified emerging risks during the process of accreditation. Findings show that the process of
accreditation increases work-related risks before the inspection visit. These findings have significant implications in understating
the way accreditation processes increase psychosocial risks; they also consolidate the idea that appropriate systems and support
for HCPs should be a priority when planning for accreditation.