Empower Your ASC with Accreditation
Why Accreditation Matters
Whether voluntary or required, ASC accreditation is your gateway to trusted care and operational excellence.
Accreditation isn’t just a regulatory step—it’s a strategic move that builds trust, clarifies expectations, and empowers your team to deliver exceptional care. Whether mandated by your state or required by payers, accreditation validates your ASC’s commitment to safety, transparency, and continuous improvement.
Through a peer-reviewed process known as a third-party survey, your ASC can demonstrate compliance with nationally recognized standards and streamline your path to Medicare Certification.
Choose the Accrediting Body That Supports Your Goals
Three nationally recognized organizations offer ASC accreditation: Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc (AAAHC), The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), or the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC). Each brings a unique focus and support structure to help you succeed. All three hold deemed status from CMS and can conduct your Medicare Certification survey.
- Patient-centered care focus
- Provides a roadmap for continuous improvement and patient empowerment
- Clinical safety and outcome focus
- Develops deep trust through rigorous standards and safety culture
- Operational clarity and compliance focus
- Provides transparent processes and hands-on support for your team
Your Accreditation Journey—Simplified
Built on experience. Backed by trust. Designed to support you every step of the way.
Launching a new ASC is a bold move—and accreditation is a critical part of that journey. With SCSA by your side, you’re not just checking boxes. You’re building a foundation of safety, credibility, and long-term success.
Step 1: Secure Your State License or Exemption
Submit proof of licensure or exemption to begin scheduling.
SCSA helps you navigate this step with precision—ensuring your documentation is complete, compliant, and ready to go.
Step 3: Prepare for Survey
Review policies, train staff, and align documentation to meet standards.
SCSA delivers proven frameworks and hands-on guidance to ensure you’re truly survey-ready.
Step 5: Achieve Medicare Certification
Most ASCs qualify 6 months post-opening, with early options available.
SCSA helps you time it right—meet payer expectations, and secure certification without delays.
Step 2: Select Your Accrediting Body
Choose the organization that aligns best with your goals, payer requirements, and operational style.
SCSA provides clear, confident direction—no guesswork, just strategic alignment. See some differences above.
Step 4: Undergo On-Site Survey
Surveys are unannounced and typically occur within a 1–3 month window.
SCSA makes sure your ASC reflects the excellence you’ve built—no surprises, just confidence.
ASC Accreditation Process
Many surgery centers choose to go through a voluntary ASC accreditation processes conducted by their peers. This accreditation is sometimes referred to as a “third party survey” and may be mandatory in some states or with some payers. Typically this survey is after the facility has been open for 6 months; however, an early option is available to satisfy state and/or payer requirements.
All accredited ASCs must meet specific standards that are evaluated during on-site inspections. Proof of state License or exemption letter will be needed before they will schedule the survey. Medicare Certification survey through an Accrediting Body is unannounced. Accrediting bodies will typically give a 1-3 month window for survey.