On April 29, 2016, the Institute for Medical Quality (IMQ) was officially recognized as a national accrediting organization for ambulatory surgical centers (ASC) that participate in the Medicare or Medicaid programs.

This approval by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) came following a comprehensive review process to ensure that IMQ’s Standards of Accreditation meet or exceed Medicare’s Conditions for Coverage. “Our physician surveyors are highly experienced in systems that promote optimal patient care. We are pleased that CMS recognizes our expertise and profound commitment to patient safety and high quality care," said Neal Shorstein, M.D., chair of IMQ's Ambulatory Accreditation Program.

Over the years, many procedures that traditionally were performed in hospitals have shifted to less costly outpatient ambulatory surgery centers. Experts predict that outpatient surgeries will grow by nearly 20 percent within a decade. IMQ’s accreditation process ensures that ASCs serving Medicare or Medicaid beneficiaries meet all the conditions set forth in regulation to ensure quality.

IMQ understands the unique attributes of ambulatory care settings because most of the organization's surveyors are actively practicing physicians. IMQ believes that its peer-to-peer methodology greatly increases the value of the accreditation process because IMQ surveyors understand how an ASC’s regulatory compliance activities directly impact patient outcomes.

Accreditation benefits patients and doctors alike. For patients, accreditation demonstrates their doctors’ dedication to the highest standards of care. For doctors, accreditation strengthens the systems that underlie quality care. Organizations choose IMQ as their accrediting entity because of its pragmatic program, unparalleled customer service, easier application process, quick turnaround, and commitment to eliminating process barriers.