Why accreditation matters
Every aspect of a surgical or non-invasive procedure must be performed with the most advanced patient health and safety protocols. To achieve AAAASF or JCAHO accreditation, a surgical facility must meet several critical criteria:
- All state, local, and federal regulations are adhered to (such as fire safety, sanitation, and New York building and medical facility codes that were established to protect the safety of patients)
- The facility must be equipped with advanced instruments and patient health monitoring systems
- All standards related to pathogens, hazardous waste, hygiene, and sanitation are required, along with providing access under the American with Disabilities Act
- Any surgeon performing treatments at an accredited facility must have hospital privileges to perform the same procedure at an accredited hospital
- A plastic surgeon performing a cosmetic procedure must be recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (this requirement is above and beyond what many facilities require, and is an essential factor in choosing a surgeon for your procedure)
- When general anesthesia is required, it must be administered by a board-certified (or board-eligible) anesthesiologist or a registered nurse anesthetist
- All medical personnel that assist in a surgical procedure are required to be trained, certified, and licensed as surgical technicians, registered nurses, or practical nurses
