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Letter to the editor: RMCHCS gets CARF accreditation

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Conejo continues to bring benefits to Gallup?

Despite the spring departures of former CEO David Conejo and 10 directors, Rehoboth McKinley Christian Healthcare Services continues to benefit from the foresight, winning strategies and business acumen of Conejo’s previous leadership as the hospital was awarded with a three year Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities accreditation Oct. 12.

One of the most complex and financially beneficial programs for behavioral health care services in the world, the accreditation of the WellSpring Rehabilitation Center was based on surveys conducted by its governing board of commissioners.

In addition to the accreditation, the hospital reached the highest level with triple compliments for its greenhouse, sweat lodge and hogan which reflect the cultural amenities of its many Native American constituents. The CARF analysts also noted the center’s corn fields, wellness center and Healing Hands Art Studio.

“We value working with partners like David Conejo and his staff,” Michael Johnson, CARF Managing Director of Behavioral Health said. “His leadership and vision brought CARF accreditation to RMCHCS so Gallup and McKinley County residents can benefit from enhanced behavioral healthcare for many years through CARF accreditation.”

In order for the hospital to achieve this award, Conejo and his team had to meet 300 points of care to achieve certification. The program was implemented by former CEO David Conejo in 2015. Conejo was assisted by Executive Director Anita Alaniz, Executive Program Director Bernice Martinez and Aftercare Program Director William Camarota. Some members of the staff involved with applying for the award were fired and have filed lawsuits against the hospital.

CARF is an independent, nonprofit organization focused on advancing the quality of services to meet the needs for the best possible outcomes. It provides accreditation services worldwide at the request of health and human service providers who administer rehabilitation for a disability, treatment for substance abuse, home and community services, retirement living, or other health and human services. Providers that meet their standards have demonstrated their commitment to being among the best available.

William Madaras
Toms River, N.J.