Healthcare accreditation is an independent, external assessment in which an internationally recognised body checks whether a hospital, clinic or laboratory meets defined standards of quality and patient safety.
How accreditation works
Accreditation is not a one-off inspection. It is a cycle built on continuous quality improvement:
- Standards. The accreditation body publishes standards describing what an organization should do in governance, patient safety, infection control, medication management and other areas.
- Self-assessment and preparation. The organization compares its practice with the standards, closes the gaps, and prepares procedures and staff.
- On-site survey. Certified surveyors observe care, talk to staff and patients and review evidence.
- Decision. The accreditation body decides and awards a level of accreditation.
- Improvement and renewal. The organization keeps improving, and accreditation is renewed periodically.
How it differs from a licence
| Licence / permit | Accreditation | |
|---|---|---|
| Issued by | The state | An independent accreditation body |
| What it checks | Minimum requirements without which an organization may not operate | High, international standards of quality and patient safety |
| Focus | Compliance with the law | Continuous improvement and outcomes for patients |
| In Georgia | Mandatory for everyone | Mandatory for providers in the Universal Health Coverage programme (Order №4/N) |
How it differs from ISO certification
ISO 9001 is a general quality management standard that applies to any kind of organization. Healthcare accreditation is designed specifically for healthcare providers and assesses clinical practice, patient safety and people-centred care. See the detailed comparison: Accreditation or ISO?
What accreditation gives an organization
- independent, international confirmation that its services meet standards;
- a clear system for managing quality, risk and incidents;
- the trust of patients, insurers and funders;
- in Georgia, meeting the condition for taking part in the Universal Health Coverage programme.
What accreditation gives patients
An accredited organization has reliable patient identification, safe medication use, infection control, falls prevention and a rapid response to incidents. Patients have the right to information, to take part in decisions and to have their say, for example through a patient council.
Accreditation in Georgia
Ministry of Health Order №4/N requires international accreditation for providers in the Universal Health Coverage programme. The deadline for inpatient providers has passed; for ambulatory, day-hospital and laboratory providers it is 31 December 2026. Accreditation Canada is first on the Order’s list of recommended bodies. Details: Legislation and the 2026 deadline guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is accreditation mandatory in Georgia?
It is mandatory for providers in the state Universal Health Coverage programme under Ministry of Health Order №4/N. Providers under the Village Doctor sub-programme are exempt.
Who makes the accreditation decision?
The accreditation body, for example Accreditation Canada, based on the visit of its certified surveyors. The local team prepares the organization but does not award accreditation.
How long does accreditation last?
Accreditation is renewed at intervals set by the accreditation body. In between, the organization continues to improve and report on its progress.