Expert Spotlight: Suicide Prevention and Health Care Acccreditation

A Panel Discussion with CARF International

Jan 27, 2025

1 min

Recently, Michael Johnson, MA, CAP, CARF International Senior Managing Director of Behavioral Health joined Adam Chu, MPH, from the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, and Kasie Pickart, MPH, from Hope Network in an interesting panel discussion where they shared insights on implementing the Zero Suicide model and integrating CARF's comprehensive suicide prevention standards.

The discussion highlighted these key elements:

Introduction to Suicide Prevention Resource Center

The center's mission is to advance suicide prevention across diverse populations using training, consultation, and resources.

CARF accreditation standards:

CARF's consultative approach emphasizes quality improvement through peer-surveyed standards.
Alignment with the Zero Suicide framework, incorporating risk assessments, safety planning, and care transition protocols.

Hope Network's implementation journey:

Leveraged a SAMHSA grant to adopt Zero Suicide practices across 200+ Michigan locations.
Aligned practices with CARF standards for comprehensive suicide prevention.
Developed standardized tools and a suicide care pathway for consistent risk management.

Outcomes and challenges:

Improved training and organizational culture around suicide prevention.
Challenges include ensuring cross-team communication and sustaining practices post-grant funding.

View the webinar:

The discussion concluded with insights into maintaining long-term quality improvement and the benefits of CARF accreditation for suicide prevention efforts.

Michael Johnson is the CARF International Senior Managing Director of Behavioral Health. If you are looking to know more or connect with Michael, view his profile below to arrange an interview today.

Connect with:

Michael W. Johnson, MA, CAP

Senior Managing Director of Behavioral Health

A creative, solutions-oriented leader who is passionate about improving quality in behavioral healthcare through CARF accreditation.

ASAM Level of Care CertificationOffice Based Opioid Treatment (OBOT)Certified Community Behavioral Health ClinicsMental Health (Severe Mental Illness) Practice and PolicySuicide Prevention

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