Top plastic surgeons all have the same things in common. They are impassioned artists of various specialties. They are also certified practitioners operating under accredited circumstances. Surgeons that have expressed themselves to be of value both qualitatively and quantitatively will provide patients with an environment of optimal comfort and security.
By Clifford P. Clark III, MD
and Chris Knisley
ThePlasticSurgeryChannel.com
Why Accreditation Matters
A board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Clifford P. Clark III, must sometimes operate in a standardized environment. Accredited facilities like hospitals are this environment. Here, surgeons perform accredited practices and procedures. Everything involves instruments and drugs that must meet certain expectations while in use.
“There’s inspection of the devices and medications,” says Clark. “There’s inspection of the facility for process and cleanliness, and there’s also accreditation of the people who are performing the procedures there.”
Having the proper accreditation means that expectations have been met. Patients can expect the facility, equipment, and medicines to be calibrated to ensure their safety.
Do Your Research
If you’re thinking about surgery, it’s important to do your research. Part of doing research is figuring out exactly what you, as a person, want or need for yourself. Then, research is required to find a surgeon with the best capacity to serve. The surgeon of your choice should specialize in your interest and have the qualifications to assure your care.
One of the major accrediting bodies for surgical facilities is AAAASF, the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities.
An accredited facility is going to provide the environment in which patients will experience the highest regard for their care. Such facilities are equipped to handle any situation and respond to any surprise.
Following Protocol
“There needs to be a continuum, for no matter how minimally invasive the procedure, to advance through the hierarchy of medical care.”
If necessary, patients in an accredited environment can be seamlessly transferred between the levels of care.
Plastic surgery is surgery. Whether it is performed at a hospital or in a surgeon’s own facility, certain standards must be met in order to ensure patients are treated with proper care.
Surgery is complicated business involving living, unpredictable organisms and technically advanced systems. Certain measures are understood and maintained to minimize risk. The surgeons, equipment, drugs, and facility must comply with particular standards of practice and procedure.
Patients are encouraged to take this knowledge into consideration when choosing the surgical experience that’s right for them. You want a surgeon that understands your goals and appreciates the requirements necessary to operate with accreditation.