About the Program

The Center for Improvement in Healthcare Quality (CIHQ) is proud to serve as the accrediting authority for Free-Standing Emergency Center Accreditation (FSEC). Our program is designed to ensure that facilities meet rigorous standards through a structured, transparent survey process. From initial application to triennial reviews, CIHQ accreditation reflects a facility’s commitment to safe, high-quality care and continuous improvement.

Accrediting Authority:
Center for Improvement in Healthcare Quality

Accredited Program:
Free-Standing Emergency Center

Basis for Standards:
Recommendations from the American College of Emergency Physician, CMS Conditions of Participation, State law, the Institute for Safe Medication Practices, AHRQ, and the Texas Association of Freestanding Emergency Centers

Survey Outcomes:
Pass / Fail. As long as an acceptable plan of correction has been submitted and implemented, the facility passes its survey.

Duration of Accreditation:
36 months

Survey Notification:
Survey is announced

Initial Survey:
Occurs within 4 months of application acceptance

Reaccreditation Surveys:
Occur every 36 months. Window is between 34–36 months since last full survey

Survey Length:
One day

Survey Team:
One surveyor

Annual Internal Assessments:
Not required

Reporting of Complaints:
Reporting is done internally and/or through State Agency if required by law / regulation

Survey Activities: