Step 1: Accredited Hospitals

ACE determines your facility’s eligibility for certification or recertification based upon its unique situation and requirements. 

Step 2: Data Collection

ACE collects outcome data. The frequency of this collection depends on a variety of factors, including prior certification and the type and nature of any significant changes at your facility.

Step 3: Initial Review

ACE reviews the application with a focus on quality and outcomes assessment to determine if the facility meets the standards set by the appropriate ACE Standards Committee.

Step 4: Onsite Review 

After ACE has received your fees and accepts your application for accreditation, ACE staff will contact you to schedule an onsite visit. During the visit, a trained review team will validate your application, review patient records, and collect additional data. A tour of the facilities, collection of angiographic studies, and an interview with the key members of the program completes the onsite process.

Once the review team has gathered the necessary information, you will receive a formal report of your facility’s accreditation status within 30 days.

Step 5: Reporting Mechanisms

To maintain accreditation, ACE requires that your facility report outcomes at regular intervals. Participation in a national registry is encouraged but not mandatory as long as all required data is submitted according to ACE’s requirements. Your facility is also required to report any significant program changes, including changes to equipment or procedures, adding or removing operators, and sentinel events. ACE also requires that you complete an online survey each year.