Kansas City, Missouri – The Kansas City Health Department has once again been recognized for excellence in public health, obtaining reaccreditation from the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). After a thorough review of Kansas City’s operations, programs, and effects on the community, the national organization that sets the bar for quality in public health renewed the city’s accreditation.
The recognition is another step forward in the department’s continued goal of providing high-quality, accountable, and open health services. Getting PHAB accreditation is one of the best things that can happen to a local health department. It shows that it fulfills strict national criteria. The approach not only checks performance, but it also pushes people to keep getting better and builds trust in the community.
“Kansas City’s PHAB reaccreditation was a rigorous yet rewarding process that demonstrates our commitment to measuring our performance and services against the highest national standards,” said Marvia Jones, PhD, MPH, Director of Health for the Kansas CityHealth Department. “Since 2013, this process has helped us strengthen our organization from the inside out. While our work is far from over, our commitment to improving the health of Kansas City residents and businesses is deepened by reaccreditation.”
PHAB President and CEO Dr. Joneigh Khaldun emphasized the significance of such recognition, noting that accredited departments play a crucial role in shaping healthier communities.
“PHAB accreditation not only serves as a credential but also reflects a department’s dedication to building healthier communities,” Khaldun stated.
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Health departments need to achieve a wide range of performance standards to keep their accreditation. These include stopping chronic diseases, enforcing health laws, and being ready for emergencies. The review is repeated every five years. This makes sure that departments keep up with national standards and the requirements of the community.
Kansas City has been a leader in this area. In 2013, it became one of the first city health departments in the country, and the first in Missouri, to get PHAB accreditation. Its continuous presence among roughly 450 certified departments across the United States shows that it is a leader in public health practice.
The department says that its staff and community connections are what made this achievement possible. Their work together makes sure that Kansas City stays a model for public health services that are fair, effective, and responsive.
The Kansas City Health Department continues to attempt to improve the health of residents through education, outreach, and programs that help people stay healthy. You may find more information about its services and programs at kcmo.gov/health.
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