Changes in 2010

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The start of a new decade can bring about growth and positive changes. Laboratories can look forward to several exciting new developments being implemented for IAC and its divisions in 2010.

Rolling Application Deadlines for All Divisions

In response to customers' expressed needs, quarterly application deadlines have been eliminated for all IAC divisions. Laboratories may now submit applications to the IAC at any time.

Applications still undergo the same thorough review process; however, the review now occurs on a monthly basis. To be processed within the upcoming month, applicant laboratories will be required to have their application submitted by the first of the month and their case studies received by the IAC no later than the 5th of the month. Materials received after those dates will be processed with the next monthly review. Please note: It typically takes 12-16 weeks to render a decision.

Random Audits and Site Visits

In an effort to further substantiate continued compliance of accredited laboratories and in response to the requirements sanctioned by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for CMS appointed Accreditation Organizations, the IAC has implemented a policy requiring that all accredited laboratories undergo an audit or site visit at some time during their three-year accreditation period. For more information read, Maintaining Compliance.

Accreditation Decisions: The Provisional Grant

In order to be in compliance with the requirements of the Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) as an Accrediting Organization for the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA), the IAC divisions no longer grant one-year, provisional accreditation. This became effective January 1, 2010.

Increased Online Communications

Throughout its existence, the IAC has maintained a strong emphasis on service to its laboratories. In the past year, the IAC has directed its efforts to increasing online methods of communication. Items such as timely, informational e-mails, the online IAC Newsletter, live webinars and Accreditation On Demand webcasts will allow laboratories to stay current and up-to-date with IAC policies, news and information.

Moving Toward a Paperless Submission

Applicant laboratories are now required to upload and submit all attachments electronically, and the IAC has continued to improve, evolve and grow with a more green, virtually paperless application. The use of Online Accreditation, the online application from the IAC, has made applying for accreditation or reaccreditation and uploading electronic or scanned documents an easy process for laboratories.

Note: These details are specific to the Online Accreditation application process which is currently available for the ICAVL, ICANL, ICAMRL and ICACTL. The IAC anticipates launching the ICAEL's Online Accreditation application within 2010. Echocardiography laboratories are encouraged to visit www.icael.org for updates on availability of the new format.

Other specific changes in 2010 by division:

The IAC is here to help. Laboratories with questions related to these changes may contact the IAC office at 800-838-2110.