Peer Reviewers

The peer review system is the key element of COA's accreditation process. By relying on seasoned, skilled professionals to carry out the hands-on task of assessing organization compliance, COA is able to provide reviewers who are not only knowledgeable about current theory and practice, but whom organizational personnel accept as their professional peers. As with any professional endeavor, peer reviewers are measured against explicit criteria in the performance of that role. The primary elements of a successful peer performance are:

• Confidentiality
• Objectivity
• Ethical Responsibility
• Professional Responsibility
• Courteous and Facilitative Manner
• Knowledge of COA's Standards and Accreditation Process

Currently, COA has nearly 1,000 active peer reviewers consisting of the following:

• Chief Executive Officers of COA-accredited organizations or organizations in process of becoming accredited.
• Senior administrative and clinical staff of COA-accredited organizations or organizations in process of becoming accredited.
• Faculty of schools of social work with special expertise.
• Recently retired senior staff from COA-accredited organizations who continue to maintain an active role in the field.

Peer reviewers volunteer their time and expertise to participate in COA's accreditation process. They receive no monetary compensation and are reimbursed only for the expenses incurred related to the site visit. According to COA data, each peer on average contributes more than 50 hours per site visit in familiarizing himself or herself with the organization's self-study, in carrying out on-site activities, assessing compliance, and in completing the report.