Ambulatory surgery centers may attain national voluntary accreditation through The Joint Commission or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). Participation in an accreditation survey process demonstrates the surgery center’s commitment to nationally recognized high standards of health care, and offers a competitive edge in the marketplace. Over half of the ASCs in Wisconsin have attained accreditation.

The Joint Commission is considered the premier accrediting body in the nation. By adopting leading practices and meeting Joint Commission standards, ASCs are focused on better patient outcomes, risk reduction and improved business processes. ASCs that have gone through JCAHO accreditation often achieve enhanced payer recognition, are able to attract quality employees, and successfully build their customer base by strengthening consumer confidence.

The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) serves as an advocate for the provision of high quality health care through the development of nationally recognized Standards. ASCs that have gone through AAAHC accreditation are seen by third party payers, medical organizations, liability insurance companies, state and federal agencies and the public as having an added symbol of quality.

Accreditation by either organization better equips surgery centers to maintain quality standards and procedures that ultimately improve the quality of care they provide.