We just passed our American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) certification again. This is our third certification.
AAHA is a voluntary Animal Hospital certification organization that has developed a variety of standards for medical care of pets. The requirements are very strict and only 15% of Hospitals are certified by AAHA.
This year was our first certification under the new standards which deal with items such as pain management. A summary of the enhanced standards are:
Anesthesia: Methods for assessing anesthetic needs in patients and appropriateness of equipment
Client Service: Communicates well with clients during all aspects of their visit
Contagious Disease: Protocols, processes and facilities to handle contagious diseases and avoid outbreaks
Continuing Education: Continuing education tools and opportunities for staff members
Dentistry: Safe dental procedures that protect both the patient and staff members
Diagnostic Imaging: Adequate equipment to generate quality diagnostic images and utilizes proper procedures and equipment to protect staff members from radiation
Emergency/Urgent Care: Equipment handling and process for emergencies
Examination Facilities: Properly equipped for thorough examinations
Housekeeping and Maintenance: Cleanliness
Human Resources: Handling of personnel matters
Laboratory: Laboratory services for the prompt diagnosis of patients
Leadership: Leadership’s commitment to creating a positive work environment and providing high-quality care
Medical Records: Continuity of care through medical record details
Pain Management: Pain assessment, management and training
Patient Care: Humane and advantageous care to patients during all aspects of their visit
Pharmacy: Proper handling, storing and dispensing of medications
Safety: Safety of environment for patients, clients and team members
Surgery: Patient safety in an aseptic environment with appropriate pre- and post-operative considerations
