What type of accreditation is offered by the AOA?

The accreditation offered by the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) specifically pertains to osteopathic hospitals and health care facilities. This reflects the AOA's commitment to promoting the osteopathic philosophy and ensuring that facilities meet high standards of quality and care that align with this approach. Osteopathic medicine emphasizes a holistic view of patient care and the integration of primary, preventative, and specialty care, which is integral to the accreditation standards set by the AOA.

This type of accreditation is important because it not only validates the quality of services provided by these facilities but also fosters continuous improvement and adherence to best practices within the osteopathic community. The focus on osteopathic hospitals and care emphasizes the unique aspects of osteopathic medicine, including the use of a whole-person approach to treatment and a strong emphasis on preventive care, which are hallmark attributes of the osteopathic profession.

Other types of accreditation listed are governed by different organizations that specialize in those specific areas, which reinforces the importance of understanding the distinct roles various accrediting bodies play in health care quality assurance.