CMS Finalizes Accrediting Organization Standards

On June 12, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued its Strengthening Oversight of Accrediting Organizations final rule, to increase accountability and consistency among the accrediting organizations (AO) that survey hospitals and other Medicare-certified providers. CMS developed the rule in response to concerns about AO survey performance and oversight. For example, the agency cited potential conflicts of interest tied to consulting services and instances when accrediting organizations gave advance notice of on-site surveys.

The rule aims to strengthen CMS oversight of AOs, standardize survey practices and training, and align accreditation standards more closely with Medicare requirements. Although the rule primarily affects AOs, providers might experience more standardized and rigorous accreditation surveys and should expect continued emphasis on compliance with Medicare Conditions of Participation. The rule will take effect on June 16, 2027.

Contact Director of Policy Rob Nelb, MPH, at [email protected] or 202.585.0127 with questions.