Since its inception in 2018, the MUHC COE AD has sought to adhere to the highest standards to drive Quality of Care. In searching for a Quality Improvement (QI) framework, we identified the Global Allergy and Asthma European Network’s Atopic Dermatitis Centers of Reference and Excellence (GA²LEN ADCARE), the only international accreditation program for centers of excellence in the field of atopic dermatitis.
Over three years, the MUHC COE AD worked to meet and/or surpass the global standards for high-value atopic dermatitis care, including the following top-priority items;
- 1) clinical diagnosis and assessment;
- 2) patient education;
- 3) coordinated and structured multidisciplinary team;
- 4) monitoring and evaluating of care quality; and
- 5) collaboration with patient groups.
In late 2021, the MUHC COE AD was audited by Prof. Torsten Zuberbier (Charité Berlin) according to GA²LEN ADCARE’s 32 criteria across following categories:
- infrastructure,
- management,
- research,
- education, and
- advocacy.
It is now the first Canadian ADCARE center, and one of only three in North America. GA²LEN ADCARE centers of excellence are defined as entities that provide leadership, best practices guidelines, training, and educational resources in a highly specialized manner.
The MUHC Center of Excellence for Atopic Dermatitis was accredited as the first Canadian site to join the Global Allergy and Asthma European Network’s Atopic Dermatitis Centers of Reference and Excellence (GA²LEN ADCARE).
Dr. Jack and her team are pictured here with their GA²LEN ADCARE certificate;
(from left) MSc candidate Harshita Patel; MD candidate and Research Coordinator Douglas M. Lebo; MUHC COE AD Founder Dr. Carolyn Jack; Patient Partner and Research Coordinator Charlie Bouchard; MUHC COE AD Medical Secretary Stephanie Campanelli; Research Assistant Gaurav Isola.