American Animal Hospital Association Accreditation

Did you know that the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) is the only organization that accredits veterinary practices adhering to the highest standards of veterinary care? McKinney Animal Hospital is proud to hold the distinction of being the first animal hospital in Collin County to become accredited by the AAHA. The evaluation system developed by AAHA is comprehensive and practices are regularly evaluated to ensure that standards of excellence are met in every area of practice. The process of being awarded accreditation is not easy and is totally voluntary, but it's a goal we all agree is well worth our efforts.

The following information is taken from the AAHA website and explains more about the AAHA Standards of Accreditation (01-01-2007):

What Are AAHA Standards?

Since 1933, AAHA's leaders and other veterinary experts have developed specific written standards for companion animal practices. These standards have undergone numerous changes, but none so significant as the recent enhancements. The enhanced standards were developed in order to raise the bar of veterinary excellence. We wanted to ensure they reflect the developments made over the past 10 years in veterinary medicine in addition to AAHA's team philosophy. We recognize that practice team members make significant contributions to the delivery of quality care and the overall success of every veterinary practice.

The enhanced standards cover the following areas:

• Anesthesia: Methods for assessing anesthetic needs in patients and appropriateness of equipment
• Client Service: Communicates well with clients during all aspects of their visit
• Contagious Disease: Protocols, processes and facilities to handle contagious diseases and avoid outbreaks
• Continuing Education: Continuing education tools and opportunities for staff members
• Dentistry: Safe dental procedures that protect both the patient and staff members
• Diagnostic Imaging: Adequate equipment to generate quality diagnostic images and utilizes proper procedures and equipment to protect staff members from radiation
• Emergency/Urgent Care: Equipment handling and process for emergencies
• Examination Facilities: Properly equipped for thorough examinations
• Housekeeping and Maintenance: Cleanliness
• Human Resources: Handling of personnel matters
• Laboratory: Laboratory services for the prompt diagnosis of patients
• Leadership: Leadership's commitment to creating a positive work environment and providing high-quality care
• Medical Records: Continuity of care through medical record details
• Pain Management: Pain assessment, management and training
• Patient Care: Humane and advantageous care to patients during all aspects of their visit
• Pharmacy: Proper handling, storing and dispensing of medications
• Safety: Safety of environment for patients, clients and team
• Satellite Practice: Satellite facilities comply with applicable AAHA Standards of Accreditation
• Surgery: Patient safety in an aseptic environment with appropriate pre- and post-operative considerations