Introduction to DNV and NIAHO® for Critical Access Hospitals

Build a foundation in the core principles of DNV’s NIAHO® requirements and accreditation approach while gaining practical insight into the survey process and maintaining compliance year-round in a critical access hospital.

Become familiar with DNV's practical approach to sustainable and continuous quality improvement in critical access hospitals

Gain an introduction to DNV's NIAHO® accreditation requirements that support high-quality, patient-centered care in critical access hospitals. This foundational course provides healthcare professionals with an overview of DNV's accreditation methodology, survey process, and requirements, helping participants understand how accreditation can strengthen quality management, regulatory compliance, and organizational performance within critical access healthcare settings.

Designed specifically for critical access care professionals and teams, this course introduces the principles behind DNV's accreditation model and prepares participants to confidently engage in accreditation activities while maintaining compliance year-round. Participants will leave with a basic understanding of ISO 9001 and how its quality management principles are incorporated into DNV's accreditation approach to support continuous improvement and operational excellence.

What you’ll learn

This introductory course is designed to help critical access hospitals understand DNV accreditation requirements, prepare for the survey process, and leverage ISO 9001 as a framework for quality improvement and organizational performance. Participants will learn how to:

  • Understand the principles of DNV accreditation and how they apply to critical access hospitals
  • Explain the purpose, structure, and application of NIAHO® requirements in critical access care settings
  • Recognize how ISO 9001 serves as the foundation of DNV's accreditation methodology and supports continual improvement
  • Navigate the annual survey process with greater confidence and preparedness
  • Understand accreditation reporting requirements, findings, and follow-up activities
  • Apply quality management principles to support patient safety, operational effectiveness, and organizational performance
  • Strengthen accreditation readiness through ongoing performance monitoring and improvement efforts
  • Apply foundational quality improvement concepts within a critical access hospital environment

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for professionals working in critical access hospitals who are seeking a foundational understanding of DNV’s NIAHO® requirements and approach to accreditation, including:

  • Quality and patient safety professionals
  • Accreditation and regulatory compliance leaders
  • Hospital administrators and executive leaders
  • Clinical leaders and department managers
  • Staff involved in accreditation readiness activities
  • Professionals who are new to DNV accreditation

No prior knowledge of DNV accreditation, NIAHO®, quality management systems, or ISO 9001 is required.

Learn the fundamentals of DNV accreditation

Gain the knowledge to confidently navigate DNV's accreditation requirements. This introductory course provides the essential guidance needed to get started.