Alabama Now Requires Accreditation for Office-Based Surgery

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Application deadline: January 31, 2027. Physicians will have one year from submission to complete the accreditation process. Start planning now to avoid a last-minute scramble.

Does Your Practice Need Accreditation?

Alabama’s new rules apply to physicians performing office-based surgical procedures with sedation. Here’s how to determine whether your practice is affected.

If your practice performs Level II or Level III procedures, accreditation is mandatory under Alabama’s new OBS regulations. ACHC is approved by the Board of Medical Examiners and ready to help you meet the deadline.

Level I Procedures

Procedures using local anesthesia only, with no sedation. These practices are not required to obtain accreditation under the new regulations.

Level II Procedures

Procedures performed under moderate sedation (conscious sedation). If your practice administers oral, IV, or intramuscular sedation beyond minimal levels, you fall into this category.

Accreditation required.

Level III Procedures

Procedures performed under deep sedation or general anesthesia. This includes any office-based practice where patients are rendered unconscious or unable to respond purposefully.

Accreditation required.

Not Sure Where You Fall?

If you’re unsure whether your procedures require Level II or Level III classification, our team can help you assess your practice and determine your obligations.

Specialties most likely affected:

Plastic Surgery

Dermatology

Pain Management

GI

Orthopedics

Ophthalmology

OB/GYN

Mohs Surgery

KEY DATES

Your Accreditation Timeline

Here are the milestones to keep in mind.

  • March 16, 2026

    New Alabama OBS regulations took effect. The clock is running.

  • Now through Q3 2026

    Prime planning window. Select an accreditor, assess your practice readiness, and close gaps before demand spikes.

  • January 31, 2027

    Accreditation applications must be submitted to the Board.

  • Within 1 Year

    Physicians must complete the full accreditation process from date of application.

Why ACHC? We're THE Standard for Modern Accreditation.

Here’s what makes working with us different.

Consultative, Education-First Surveys

Our surveyors are experienced clinicians trained to educate during the process, helping your practice understand not just whether you’re compliant, but why each standard exists.

Dedicated OBS Expertise

ACHC maintains a standalone OBS accreditation program. Our standards are purpose-built for the unique risks of procedures performed in a physician’s office.

Responsive, Personal Service

When you call ACHC, you’ll reach people who know your program. Our team is accessible, fast to respond, and genuinely invested in helping your practice succeed.

Transparent, Competitive Pricing

ACHC’s pricing is structured to be fair and straightforward, with no hidden fees or surprise costs. We understand that office-based practices are businesses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Alabama physicians need to know about the new OBS accreditation requirement.

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Do I really need accreditation, or is this optional?

It is not optional. Alabama’s new OBS regulations require every physician performing Level II or Level III office-based surgical procedures to obtain accreditation from a Board-approved accrediting organization. Applications must be submitted by January 31, 2027.

How do I know if I’m Level I, Level II, or Level III?

The level is determined by the type of anesthesia used during your procedures. Level I covers local anesthesia only (no accreditation required). Level II covers moderate/conscious sedation. Level III covers deep sedation or general anesthesia. If you administer any sedation beyond local, you likely need accreditation. If you’re unsure, ACHC can help you assess your classification.

Who are the approved accrediting organizations?

The Alabama Board of Medical Examiners has approved six accrediting organizations: ACHC, AAAHC, AAAASF (Quad A), The Joint Commission, SRC, and IMQ. Each has a different approach, pricing structure, and level of experience with office-based surgery.

What makes ACHC different from other accreditors?

ACHC takes a consultative, education-first approach to surveys. Our surveyors are clinicians who help practices understand the “why” behind each standard, not just whether a box is checked. We maintain a dedicated OBS program (not an add-on to an ASC program), offer transparent pricing, and provide responsive personal service throughout the process.

How long does the accreditation process take?

Timelines vary depending on your practice’s current readiness, but most practices should plan for several months of preparation before the survey itself. That’s why starting early matters. The sooner you engage with an accreditor, the more time you have to prepare at a comfortable pace rather than rushing to meet the deadline.

What does the survey process look like with ACHC?

An ACHC OBS survey is conducted on-site by experienced clinical surveyors. They’ll review your policies and procedures, observe clinical operations, interview staff, and evaluate your physical environment and equipment. The tone is collaborative. Surveyors are trained to identify areas of improvement and educate your team along the way.

What will I need to have in place before the survey?

Key areas include: written policies and procedures for clinical operations, an emergency preparedness plan, infection control protocols, a quality assurance and performance improvement (QAPI) program, equipment maintenance records, and proper informed consent documentation. ACHC provides guidance to help you understand what’s required before your survey is scheduled.

How much does ACHC accreditation cost?

Pricing depends on the size and scope of your practice. ACHC’s fee structure is transparent, with no hidden costs. Contact our team for a personalized quote based on your specific situation.

I’ve never been through accreditation before. Where do I start?

Start by reaching out to ACHC. Our team will walk you through the process, help you understand the standards that apply to your practice, and give you a clear picture of what to expect. We work with first-time applicants regularly and can help you build a plan that fits your timeline and resources.

Can I switch to ACHC if I’m already accredited by another organization?

Yes. ACHC has a streamlined transition process for practices moving from another accreditor. Contact us to discuss your current accreditation status and we’ll outline what the switch involves.

OBS Accreditation Deadline

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Ready to Get Started?

The sooner you begin planning, the sooner our team can help you get on the right track ahead of the January 2027 deadline.

Request a Quote at achc.org/office-based-surgery
Or call (855) 837-4631