Jacksonville University's Student Health Center has earned recognition from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), joining an elite group of college health centers nationwide. Only about 30% of college health centers hold this prestigious distinction, which recognizes adherence to rigorous standards of care and safety.
The achievement is particularly remarkable given that the Student Health Center opened just five years ago in August 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The center has worked toward this goal since its founding.
“Achieving AAAHC accreditation validates the quality of care we've been providing
since day one," said Dr. Elaine Borne, executive director of the Jacksonville University
Student Health Center and clinical assistant professor in the Keigwin School of Nursing.
"This recognition affirms that our students receive the same high standard of care
they would find at any top-tier ambulatory healthcare facility in the country.” 
Status as an accredited organization means the Student Health Center has met nationally recognized standards for the provision of quality healthcare set by AAAHC. More than 6,700 ambulatory healthcare organizations across the United States are currently accredited by AAAHC.
The Student Health Center is uniquely managed and operated by autonomous board-certified nurse practitioners. Services include primary healthcare, women's health exams including contraceptive management and STD screening, and mental health care with evaluation, counseling and medication management.
“Dr. Borne and her dedicated team have worked tirelessly to build a Student Health Center that exemplifies excellence in every aspect of care delivery," said Dr. Lindsay Wolf, associate dean of nursing, chief academic nurse and associate professor of nursing in the Keigwin School of Nursing. “To achieve this level of accreditation in just five years is a testament to their leadership and commitment to our campus community.”
Ambulatory healthcare organizations seeking AAAHC accreditation undergo an extensive self-assessment and onsite survey by AAAHC expert surveyors – physicians, nurses and administrators who are actively involved in ambulatory care. The survey is peer-based and educational, presenting best practices to help an organization improve its care and services.
"This accreditation also demonstrates our comprehensive commitment to supporting the whole student — academically, personally and physically,” said Dr. Kristie Gover, dean of students and senior vice president of student affairs. “It recognizes the health center's commitment to providing safe, high-quality services to our students and demonstrates the dedication of the entire Student Health Center team.
This important milestone in the Student Health Center's journey embodies the spirit of excellence that defines Jacksonville University. The center stands as a beacon of quality care, ensuring every Dolphin has access to exceptional healthcare.
