With the conception of developing an accreditation organization specifically designed with the durable medical equipment (DME) business in mind, came a fundamental system of beliefs and values regarding the accreditation process. The concepts that merged to form this alternative include:

• That DME’s care deeply for the patients they serve
• That standing up and saying “I run a quality business” is a goal belonging to all DME businesses
• That strengthening the quality of the industry comes with strengthening each individual link in the service chain
• That the DME industry can set a positive example for ethics and integrity in the broad health care picture
• That simplicity and self-management of the accreditation process empowers the DME business to fully utilize the purpose of accreditation
• That taking pride in providing a quality service benefits patients, employees and the industry
• That the DME business is our customer and service is the key ingredient to improvement

It is with pride and focused, dedicated anticipation that HQAA vows to continuously strive to set standards of the highest quality on behalf of the DME industry and business owners. We listen, we act, we stand together and in unison to bring the whole of DME service and provision to the next level.

HQAA Mission

To define, assist and ensure that demonstration of high standards of quality and business practices exist in durable medical equipment organizations. HQAA will deem companies certified in practicing industry quality standards, and provide continuous support in the achievement and maintenance of those standards in order to ensure consistent integrity within the DME industry.

HQAA Vision

To ensure that patients, families, caregivers, medical professionals and peers in the industry view the HQAA Accreditation Certification as an achievement and commitment to providing quality services and products. Potential customers will seek the HQAA Logo when needing to secure DME equipment and/or services.

HQAA Values

Ethics

• Our business ethics set the example of what is expected of the businesses we accredit
• Our decisions are based upon ethical principles

Leadership

• We are committed to promoting and demonstrating leadership within our company, community and industry that we serve
• On-going training and self-improvement is a cornerstone to consistent improvement
• Involvement in positive relationship building is encouraged and expected
• Serving the customer’s needs is a core value
• Encourage leadership through empowerment

Professionalism

• Staying true to the mission and vision of the organization is the foundation for professional behavior and decision-making
• Representing the needs of the patients ultimately served and the quality of their interaction with our customers will be considered at all times
• Demonstration of responsibility to the industry is required

Promotion of Quality

• We will always seek excellence and not be afraid to face change and the process of change
• We seek information to make good decisions and listen to the voice of the customer in planning for improvements

Integrity

• Individual integrity will enhance the synergy of a team-oriented atmosphere where respect for others exists at all times
• Maintaining honest and open communication is imperative to the growth, future and continuous improvement of the organization