Facilities accredited by AAAASF have taken additional steps to foster a safe environment for your health care. They must pass a rigorous evaluation process and comply with 100 percent of the over 330 AAAASF standards for patient safety. An accredited facility demonstrates compliance with the strict requirements established for certification of an office-based surgical facility, as well as its directors, physicians, medical specialists and staff. They also must pass a thorough onsite survey every year. Every aspect of care is examined in the certification process.

Patient safety is an ongoing effort. To maintain their accreditation, facilities must complete an annual self-survey as well as undergo formal onsite re-surveys by a qualified surveyor. Surgical facilities must also partake in a peer review process in which other active members of the medical community conduct a review of surgical cases.

Accreditation alone cannot guarantee a positive outcome but it does provide a level of assurance that a facility has taken action to help make patient safety a primary focus.

AAAASF provides official recognition to facilities that have met 100% of its high standards. Accreditation assures the public that patient safety is a top priority in a facility.

An accredited facility must comply with the most stringent set of applicable standards available in the nation and meet our strict requirements for facility directors, board certification within their specialty and staff credentials. It also must pass a thorough survey by qualified AAAASF surveyors.

An accredited facility is re-evaluated through a self-survey every year, and an onsite survey every three years. Facilities must continuously comply with all AAAASF accreditation standards between surveys. Upon approval, an accredited facility must prominently display its accreditation certificate in public view.

An accredited facility must be fully equipped to perform procedures in the medical specialties listed on its accreditation application and be prepared to deal with any emergencies that may arise.

All new facilities are sent to an accreditation committee for approval after having passed their initial inspection. After approval is granted, accreditation becomes active and the facility is promptly notified.

While facilities are required to prominently display their accreditation certificate in a public area, the best way to know if a facility is actively accredited is to contact us directly. Facilities may terminate or lose their accreditation for various reasons at any time. When you call (888-545-5222), the AAAASF will provide up-to-date information regarding a facility’s accreditation status. You may visit their website, aaaasf.org, for more information.

Educated patients are the best patients. Ask to see the facility’s valid accreditation certificate. Each accredited facility is re-evaluated every year and must comply with all AAAASF accreditation standards. Upon approval, a new accreditation certificate is awarded and prominently displayed in the facility.

Look for the AAAASF logo to determine if the office-based surgical facility you choose is accredited by the GOLD STANDARD of organizations.