Frequently asked questions
What is healthcare accreditation?
An independent, external assessment in which an internationally recognised body checks whether an organization meets standards of quality and patient safety.
Who makes the accreditation decision?
Only Accreditation Canada, based on the visit of its certified surveyors. The local team prepares and supports the organization but does not award accreditation.
Is accreditation mandatory in Georgia?
It is mandatory for providers in the state Universal Health Coverage programme under Ministry of Health Order №4/N. It does not apply to the Village Doctor sub-programme.
What is the deadline for ambulatory clinics and laboratories?
Ambulatory, day-hospital and laboratory service providers must submit a copy of their certificate to the Ministry by 31 December 2026.
What was the deadline for inpatient facilities?
The deadline was 15 June 2025; facilities with a contract with an accreditor could be granted additional time, up to 31 December 2025.
What happens if a facility misses the deadline?
Since 30 June 2026 the Minister may set exceptional conditions for objective reasons, provided quality is not affected. The facility must report its progress in the accreditation process, so starting the process always matters.
Who may accredit healthcare organizations in Georgia?
A body that is both a member of ISQua and accredited by it, with practice in the EU, Canada or the USA, or a local accreditation body operating in an EU member state. Accreditation Canada is first on the recommended list.
Can an outpatient clinic submit ISO 9001 instead of accreditation?
Yes. The Order accepts ISO 9001 as an alternative for ambulatory providers.
Does a laboratory need ISO 15189?
Yes, unless the facility holds international accreditation. Accredited facilities and laboratories are exempt from this obligation.
When must we notify the Ministry that we have started?
Within 30 calendar days of starting the accreditation process, if the accreditor is on the recommended list. Choosing another body requires the Ministry’s prior agreement.
Which organizations can be accredited?
Hospitals, outpatient clinics, laboratories and diagnostic centres. Accreditation Canada also runs dedicated programmes for medical laboratories and diagnostic imaging.
What is Qmentum International?
Accreditation Canada’s international accreditation programme, with standards developed by the Health Standards Organization (HSO). It focuses on patient safety, governance and continuous improvement.
What levels of accreditation are there?
Qmentum International awards accreditation at three levels: Gold, Platinum and Diamond. The nine accredited organizations in Georgia achieved Platinum.
How long does preparation take?
It depends on the size of the organization and its current readiness, typically from several months to a year. We set a realistic timeline at the first consultation.
What language is the preparation in?
All consultations, meetings and training are held in Georgian, and every requirement of the standards is explained in Georgian.
What happens during the survey visit?
Over several days, certified surveyors observe care, talk to staff and patients, and review documentation and evidence.
What if a standard is not met?
The surveyors record areas for improvement and the organization plans and carries out corrective actions. Accreditation is built on continuous improvement.
How long is accreditation valid?
Accreditation is renewed periodically on a cycle set by the accreditation body; in between, the organization keeps improving and reporting.
What do the Local Advisory Services include?
A dedicated coordinator, support from 10 experts, online and on-site training, the Patient Voice package, environmental monitoring, SOPs and a survey simulation.
Who can use the advisory services?
Only healthcare organizations that have a contract with Accreditation Canada.
What is a patient council?
A group of patient and community members who meet monthly with a hospital representative to review patient feedback and agree improvement actions.
What does accreditation mean for patients?
A safer environment: correct patient identification, safe medication use, infection control, falls prevention and informed participation in their own care.
Where can I find accredited organizations in Georgia?
On our Accredited page and in Accreditation Canada’s international register on accreditation.ca.
How many organizations joined the Accreditation Canada programme in Georgia?
23 organizations; 9 of them achieved Platinum accreditation in February 2025.
How is accreditation different from a licence?
A licence is issued by the state and checks minimum requirements; accreditation is awarded by an independent body and assesses high international standards of quality and safety.
Are your resources free?
Yes. 142 patient booklets, 10 posters and 56 wayfinding signs are free for any healthcare facility.
Do you run training?
Yes. In 2025 we ran 13 free training sessions open to all clinics, and partner organizations receive two online courses a month and quarterly on-site training.
Can a small clinic be accredited?
Yes. International accreditation is available to healthcare organizations of different types and sizes, and the programme is adapted to the organization’s profile.
Where is the office?
In Tbilisi, at 3 Betlemi Rise. The office is operated by the Public Health Institute of Georgia.
How do we get started?
Write to info@accreditation.ge, message us on WhatsApp at +995 577 41 63 14 or use the contact form. At the first consultation we assess your readiness and agree the next steps.
Would you like to assess your readiness?
At a first consultation we will look at your organization together and agree the next steps.
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Healthcare Accreditation in Georgia: FAQ
https://accreditation.ge/en/faq/How to cite this page
Accreditation Canada – Georgia. Healthcare Accreditation in Georgia: FAQ [Internet]. Tbilisi: Public Health Institute of Georgia; 2026 [cited 2026 Oct 13]. Available from: https://accreditation.ge/en/faq/