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It is critical for vital records offices across the country to be consistent in how they collect and secure identity and public health data. That’s why NAPHSIS encourages all jurisdictions to secure the Vital Records and Health Statistics (VRHS) Accreditation, which is available through the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). PHAB is now accepting applications for VRHS Accreditation.
To learn more about the program requirements, including information such as the fee schedule, PHAB VRHS Standards and Measures, and the VRHS Accreditation Guide, visit the PHAB website now.
Vital Records/Health Statistics (VRHS) Units in the 57 jurisdictional areas identified by the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) within the National Vital Statistics Cooperative Program (VSCP) may apply.
These include jurisdictions where statewide vital records are collected and encompass the 50 states, District of Columbia, New York City, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and Virgin Islands.
A state or territorial health department does not have to be PHAB-accredited for the VRHS unit to apply. VRHS Unit Accreditation Standards and Measures are equally applicable to all eligible applicants, regardless of their organizational structure.
Training, Technical Assistance and Resources for VRHS Units preparing for accreditation are available on the Members Only section of the Naphsis website. More of these self-guided tools and resources will be developed, so check back regularly while working through the accreditation process. NAPHSIS will also provide one-on-one consultation and assistance to VRHS Units preparing for accreditation.
For additional accreditation resources and technical assistance from NAPHSIS, please email vrhsaccred@naphsis.org.
PHAB’s VRHS Accreditation program relies on volunteer peer reviewers to assess documentation and conduct site visits for VRHS Units pursuing accreditation. Site visitors gain valuable networking opportunities with public health leaders, in-depth information about the VRHS accreditation process, and have the chance to improve the public health field. A virtual site visitor training is being planned for August so eligible applicants will be invited. Please feel free to share with anyone with State or Territorial VRHS experience that might be interested. Apply Here to be a Volunteer VRHS Site Visitor
