CCHSA accreditation: a change catalyst toward healthier work environments.

Canada has made significant progress in research and policy development regarding work environment issues that contribute to the quality of the work environment in health organizations. In order to successfully achieve the outcomes that healthier work environments can have on providers, patients and the system, more definitive action is required now. The Canadian Council on Health Services Accreditation (CCHSA) is a recognized catalyst of change in health organizations and systems in Canada and internationally. This paper reviews CCHSA's role in contributing to the improvement of the health of work environments in order to improve both the well-being of those working in healthcare and the quality of care being provided to their patients or clients.