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AAHA ACCREDITATION
Information for Pet Owners
Background
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) is an organization serving veterinarians and staff members, who are engaged in the delivery of veterinary medical care to companion animals. In addition to providing educational programs and publications and various services to practices, the Association publishes Standards for veterinary practices. Those practices that choose to undergo periodic on-site evaluation by AAHA staff may become accredited by the Association. Membership in AAHA and participation in the Accreditation Program is voluntary.
The Standards and the Accreditation Program
The Standards developed and published by AAHA are widely accepted as representing those components of veterinary practice that represent high quality care. The Standards are periodically reviewed and updated to ensure that they remain consistent with evolving knowledge and technology. They cover physical facilities, equipment, patient and staff safety, staff continuing education and training, medical record keeping, and medical protocols.
Those practices that wish to be accredited complete an application and preparation process, which culminates with an on-site evaluation by a veterinary professional employed by AAHA. Those practices that are found to be in compliance with the Standards established by the Association are awarded AAHA Accredited Practice status. In order to maintain accreditation, the practice must undergo additional on-site evaluations, at intervals of approximately every three years.
What Accreditation Means for Pet Owners
AAHA is the only organization that accredits animal hospitals throughout the U.S. and Canada. AAHA-accredited hospitals voluntarily choose to be evaluated on over 900 standards in the following areas: quality of care; diagnostic & pharmacy; management; medical records; and facility. Because of the AAHA Standards of Accreditation, you can be sure that your pet will receive top-quality care at an AAHA-accredited hospital. Because of the AAHA Standards of Accreditation, AAHA-accredited hospitals generally provide top-quality care to their patients. However, AAHA accreditation is not a guarantee of the appropriate level of patient care or client service. To share your comments regarding your visit to an AAHA-accredited hospital please click here. |