AAHA Accreditation Standards
AAHA Accreditation Standards: Ensuring the Best Care for Your Pet
When it comes to choosing a veterinary hospital for your beloved pet, you want to ensure they receive the best care possible. One way to guarantee this is by choosing an American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)-accredited hospital. But what does it mean to be AAHA-accredited?
AAHA accreditation is not easily obtained. Veterinary hospitals must meet or exceed hundreds of standards in various categories, including anesthesia, dentistry, emergency and critical care, human resources, laboratory, medical records, pain management, patient care, pharmacy, and surgery. These standards cover all aspects of veterinary care and business and are constantly evolving to keep up with advancements in veterinary medicine.
For hospitals seeking their first AAHA accreditation, significant changes may need to be made to meet the rigorous standards. Preparation for the initial evaluation can take months to years. Once accredited, hospitals must continue to adapt to the profession’s evolving standards and pass re-evaluations every few years.
AAHA Guidelines and the Difference
In addition to meeting accreditation standards, AAHA-accredited hospitals also follow guidelines created by industry experts to cover popular and rapidly developing topics in veterinary care. These guidelines are available to all veterinary professionals, regardless of their AAHA membership status, and aim to provide the best recommendations for patient care.
Since 1933, AAHA’s ultimate goal has been to help veterinary professionals provide exceptional care to pets and pet parents. Accreditation and membership are voluntary, demonstrating a strong drive to be the best of the best and truly care about your pet’s health and well-being. AAHA hospitals are a nationwide network of veterinary practices that operate according to high standards and values.
If you are looking for a veterinarian who meets AAHA accreditation standards, use the AAHA search tool to find an accredited hospital near you. Give your pet the care they deserve by choosing an AAHA-accredited veterinary hospital.
