Table 1 Included systematic reviews
Reference | Search date | Aim of review | Study design included | Number of included studies | Main conclusion stated by authors | Studies that match our inclusion criteria |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Flodgren et al. 2011 [15] | May 2011 | Evaluate the effectiveness of external inspection of compliance with standards in improving healthcare organizations behavior, healthcare professionals behavior and patient outcomes | RCT, CCT, ITS, CBA | Two in total, 1 RCT, 1 ITS | No firm conclusion were drawn due to paucity of high-quality controlled evaluations | Salmon et al. [18] |
Matrix Knowledge group 2010Â [16] | August 2010 | Produce a general overview of results obtained and methodologies used to assess impact of accreditation | Studies containing an element of comparison | 56 in total, 40 studies with quantitative design of which 1 study presented empirical data | Most studies suggest that accreditation/certification has an impact on the organization or on the professional practice. The impact on health outcomes or improvement in these outcomes was not demonstrated. | Salmon et al. [18] |
Alkhenizan & Shaw 2011 [17] | June 2009 | Evaluate the impact of accreditation programs on the quality of healthcare services | Clinical trials, observational studies and qualitative studies | 26 in total, 10 studied accreditation of hospitals of which 1 had a hospital control group | Accreditation improves the process of care provided by healthcare services | Salmon et al. [18] |