January 17, 2017

 MSUB Student Health Services staff

Student Health Services at MSUB recently achieved accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care. SHS employees pictured are, from left, Renee’ Wheeler, Jenna Phillips, Becky Muller, Jana Olson, Therese Evangeline, Vicki Burford, Emily Huckins, Amy Davis and Darla Tyler-McSherry. Not pictured are Jessie Hahne, Koby Kaster and Kale Joyce.

MSUB’s Student Health Services earns AAAHC Accreditation

AAAHC recognition distinguishes Center for highest quality care

 

Contacts:

Darla Tyler-McSherry, Student Health Services, 657-2564

University Relations, 657-2266

 

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES — The Student Health Center at Montana State University Billings has earned accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc.

 

SHC Director Darla Tyler-McSherry said the organization went through a thorough peer-based review process that took a few years to complete in order to be recognized by the AAAHC.

 

This accreditation encompasses all aspects of MSUB Student Health, which includes medical, counseling, wellness, sexual assault advocacy services, and massage therapy. 

 

The AAAHC Certificate of Accreditation is widely recognized as a symbol of quality by third party payers, medical organizations, liability insurance companies, state and federal agencies and the public.

 

Student Health Services logo
“This wasn’t mandatory but something our team decided to pursue in order to show students, parents and colleagues we are providing the highest level of care,” Tyler-McSherry said. “We are very honored and proud of what we’ve accomplished.”

 

She indicated that the health center partners played a role in obtaining accreditation.

Medical Director Becky Muller, as well as registered nurse Renee’ Wheeler are contracted by MSUB from St. Vincent’s Healthcare. The center’s other R.N., Jana Olson, is a MSUB employee.

 

“I’d like to stress that this was a team effort in which all Health Services staff engaged in and committed to achieving this goal,” Tyler-McSherry said.

 

During 2015-2016 the SHS provided about 900 medical visits and an equal number of counseling visits. The center also provided more than 220 massages and had 2400 students participate in wellness care.

 

More than 6,000 ambulatory health care organizations across the United States are accredited by AAAHC, however not all that seek accreditation and undergo the rigorous on-site survey process are granted status.