Why should I go to an ICAEL or ICAVL Accredited lab?

IAC Accreditation - A "Seal Of Approval" Patients Can Count On.
Private offices, clinics and departments within hospitals that are accredited by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Echocardiography Laboratories (ICAEL) or the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories (ICAVL) voluntarily submit to a review of their daily operations. By participating in the accreditation process, these medical facilities demonstrate a commitment to the performance of quality heart ultrasound (echocardiography) and circulation ultrasound (vascular) testing and strive to meet nationally recognized standards. During the accreditation process, applicant heart ultrasound laboratories must submit documentation on every aspect of their daily operations. While completing the application, laboratories are required to identify and correct potential problems, revising protocols and validating quality assurance programs. Applications submitted, including samples of the heart ultrasounds performed, are reviewed by experts throughout the United States and Canada. Accreditation is granted only to those facilities that are found to be providing quality patient care, in compliance with The ICAEL and ICAEVL Standards. Once granted, ICAEL and ICAVL accreditation is valid for a period of three years, after which time the facility must undergo a repeat evaluation.

To find an Accredited Heart Ultrasound lab click here

To find an Accredited Circulation Ultrasound lab click here

ICAEL Patient Information - The ICAEL provides the following information as a service to the general public. This section is designed to help prospective patients stay educated and informed about echocardiography and the importance of accredited laboratories. Click here to be redirected to their patient information pages.

Last Update 3/8/2007