Standards for improving the quality of care for children and young adolescents in health facilities

Standards for improving the quality of care for children and young adolescents in health facilities, provides a comprehensive framework to strengthen health systems and optimize health outcomes for young populations. Published in 2018, this document addresses the critical need for high-quality, equitable, and age-appropriate health services, supporting progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 3.

The resource is structured around eight core standards that span two major dimensions: the provision of care and the experience of care. These standards mandate evidence-based clinical management, actionable health information systems, functioning referral networks, and effective communication that ensures the active participation of children and their families. Furthermore, the guidelines emphasize the protection of children’s rights, the provision of psychosocial support, the deployment of competent and empathetic human resources, and the maintenance of child- and adolescent-friendly physical environments with essential medicines and supplies.

Designed to assist health facility managers, planners, and clinical staff, the document outlines specific quality statements and measurable criteria. By translating global guidance into actionable facility-level benchmarks, it serves as an essential roadmap for healthcare accreditation, internal quality audits, and continuous performance improvement.