Goodbirth accreditation is a mark of commitment by the midwifery center to high-quality care. An accredited center goes through a yearlong process of self-assessment, submission of evidence demonstrating alignment with 43 global standards, and assessment by an independent board of commissioners to determine if they meet international standards.

Accreditation is a voluntary, educational process that recognizes commitment to continuous quality improvement. Accreditation is an award for the center; an accomplishment for the center’s staff; and a critical assurance for those that use, support, and fund the center’s programs.

Accreditation is an objective and systematic measurement of how well an institution meets operational standards. Evaluation uses validated standards developed by peers.

Centers voluntarily seek accreditation because of its educational value. Accreditation is an award for the center; an accomplishment for the center’s staff; and a critical assurance for those that use, support, and fund the center’s programs.

Many countries lack processes for licensing of midwifery centers. In these countries, accreditation by a non-governmental organization is especially important, as it is the only formal mechanism by which clients, local communities, the government, professional associations and funders may be reassured that a center is meeting international standards for sustainable quality. This is especially important in the areas of respectful care and human dignity.