What Is a Preliminary Accreditation—and Why It’s Required for AFC Providers in MA
- Vicki Richards
- Oct 18
- 2 min read
If you’re new to launching an Adult Foster Care (AFC) or Group Adult Foster Care (GAFC) program in Massachusetts, one of the most important concepts to understand is Preliminary Accreditation.
MassHealth’s August 2023 update (Bulletin 30) made it clear: no provider can enroll or serve clients under AFC or GAFC without obtaining full accreditation first. For many providers, that means starting with Preliminary Accreditation for AFC providers in MA through CARF.
What Is Preliminary Accreditation?
CARF’s Preliminary Accreditation is a 12-month designation that confirms your policies, procedures, and organizational structure meet CARF’s standards—even if you haven’t begun providing services yet.
It’s a critical first step for new programs like yours, allowing you to satisfy MassHealth’s requirement for accreditation before you begin operations.
Why It Matters for AFC Programs in Massachusetts
MassHealth doesn’t just want a plan—they want assurance that your program meets national quality standards from day one. Earning preliminary accreditation:
Allows you to move forward with MassHealth provider enrollment
Signals to referral sources and families that you’re committed to quality care
Positions you for a smoother full accreditation survey once you're operational
What CARF Looks For During Preliminary Accreditation
Even without active clients, CARF reviewers will want to see that your organization has:
Well-developed and CARF-aligned policies
Staff roles defined and ready to be filled
A service delivery model that supports person-centered care
A solid risk management structure
Plans for documentation, data tracking, and continuous improvement
How We Can Help
At Compass Consultants, we help providers across Massachusetts achieve Preliminary Accreditation with confidence. Our services ensure:
Policies and procedures align with CARF and MassHealth expectations
Everything is customized to your program’s structure
The accreditation process is smooth and manageable
We partner with a seasoned AFC operator based in MA to guide you through real-world application—not just compliance.
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to take the next step toward Preliminary Accreditation for AFC providers in MA?Contact us here or call us at 336-879-3899 to schedule your free consultation.Let’s make sure your program meets MassHealth’s requirements—right from the start.
