Riverside University Health System – Public Health (RUHS – PH) announced on March 13 that it has successfully renewed its national accreditation from the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB), a non-profit organization focused on advancing public health practice through performance improvement and innovation.
The reaccreditation is significant because it demonstrates RUHS – PH’s ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards in public health services for Riverside County. The process, which took a year, involved a comprehensive review of the department’s practices and protocols by peers in the field.
First District Supervisor and Board Chairwoman Karen Spiegel said, “It says a lot about any organization that holds its practices and protocols up to the scrutiny of its peers. Public Health, led by director Kim Saruwatari, has been a consistent presence for good in this county, always seeking to become better, stronger and more adaptable in the face of the ever-changing landscape of health in Riverside County. I commend the staff and leadership for this accomplishment.”
RUHS – PH first achieved full accreditation in 2019 with goals to improve agency quality and performance as well as ensure accountability to governing bodies and communities served. With this renewal, RUHS – PH will maintain its accredited status for another five years after demonstrating that it meets PHAB’s quality standards across areas such as community health assessment, disease prevention, emergency preparedness, workforce development, and quality improvement.
PHAB President and CEO Dr. Joneigh Khaldun said, “We are pleased to see RUHS – PH, along with many others, successfully maintaining their five-year PHAB accreditation. This demonstrates that accreditation is not just a one-time achievement but an ongoing commitment to excellence. By maintaining accreditation, these health departments reaffirm their dedication to continuous improvement and community health.”
Director Kim Saruwatari added, “I am immensely proud of our Public Health staff. They are a skilled and talented team committed to the health and well-being of Riverside County residents. The accreditation renewal is a welcome validation of the important work that they do without fail every day in our communities.”
