<i>‘Why are we so afraid of accreditation?’</i> A qualitative study of the impacts of accreditation on Australian speech pathology and dietetics education programs

This qualitative study explored the value and impacts of accreditation in Australian speech pathology and dietetics programs, self-regulating health professions where evidence is limited compared to medicine. Using impacts evaluation theory, interviews with 23 university staff from 12 universities (21 per cent of the total accredited programs) revealed four key themes: 1) Accreditation fosters continuous quality improvement; 2) Accreditation drives advocacy for change; 3) Uncertainty drives fear; 4) Trust in the process is challenged. The findings suggest that the effectiveness of accreditation hinges on shifting from a compliance-focussed audit to a collaborative process built on mutual trust. To maximise benefits and reduce negative psychological impacts on staff, accrediting bodies should prioritise clearer, more transparent procedures and have processes in place to ensure accreditation reviewer consistency. This approach can better support the development of quality programs and accordingly work-ready graduates in allied health education while mitigating the administrative and emotional burdens associated with accreditation processes.