Accreditation as a catalyst for improving child nutrition services in residential care: A case study.

BACKGROUND: Child nutrition is essential for physical growth, cognitive development, and overall well-being, particularly in residential care institutions that replace family-based care. In Indonesia, accreditation systems were introduced to strengthen the quality of services in Lembaga Kesejahteraan Sosial Anak (LKSA), including nutrition services. However, evidence remains limited on how accreditation influences concrete improvements in child nutrition. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This case study was conducted at LKSA Miftahul Falah, Karawang Regency, West Java Province, Indonesia. Prior to accreditation, nutrition services were irregular and unmonitored, with several children at risk of malnutrition. Accreditation-driven reforms included the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for nutrition, structured meal planning based on national guidelines, routine anthropometric examinations, and mandatory caregiver training. RESULTS: Postintervention assessments revealed substantial improvements. Nutrition services became more consistent, meal planning adhered to nutritional standards, and regular anthropometric monitoring was established. Caregiver training enhanced accountability and service delivery. Importantly, child health outcomes improved, with fewer children at risk of malnutrition following the reforms. CONCLUSION: Accreditation served as a catalyst for long-term improvements in child nutrition services at LKSA Miftahul Falah. The experience underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based policy adoption to transform institutional care practices and enhance child welfare outcomes.