American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) is the only accrediting organization for companion animal veterinary hospitals in the United States and Canada.

Overview

Veterinary practices are not required to be AAHA-accredited, however a hospital can choose to become so if they wish to hold themselves to a public, higher standard. Hospital locations that choose to become AAHA-accredited are evaluated during a rigorous and thorough examination based on approximately 900 standards across their practice. These quality standards include, but are not limited to, patient care, diagnostic imaging, laboratory, pain management, pharmacy, safety, surgery, client service, anesthesia, contagious disease, continuing education, dentistry, examination facilities, medical recordkeeping, leadership, team training and more. Every three years, the AAHA undergoes a comprehensive on-site evaluation to maintain a location’s accredited status.

Why become AAHA-accredited?

An AAHA-accredited veterinary practice gives the customer a peace of mind and the confidence that their pet will be taken care of with the highest standards possible. AAHA accreditation enhances patient care and improves practice culture, while also providing the imperative resources that practices need to succeed.

How

In order to become AAHA-accredited, a veterinary practice will need to successfully meet and pass the evaluation established by the AAHA Board of Directors. Locations will then need to maintain continuous compliance with the AAHA standards. For more information visit www.aaha.org.