The ICAVL: Fact, Fiction Or Misconception? [continued]

FICTION: "It doesn't say anywhere within the application instructions that we had to submit two copies of everything."

FACT: When printing a completed application, the user will click on the appropriate icon on the main menu of the application. A prompt appears and states that two copies are required and a "2" appears in the text box. As well, the "Help" menu, the CD insert and the reaccreditation notification letter each instruct users to make two copies of the application and case studies. This is a crucial component to the accreditation process as two application reviewers, whose findings are then presented to the ICAVL Board Of Directors for a final decision, independently review each application.

FICTION: "We can't apply for peripheral arterial accreditation because we don't perform arterial duplex in our lab."

FACT: The standards for peripheral arterial testing require that a minimum of ankle pressures and waveforms (PVR, CW Doppler or pulsed wave Doppler) at three or more levels (ankle, calf and thigh) are performed for primary testing procedures. Arterial duplex is not required for peripheral arterial accreditation.

MISCONCEPTION: "If the medical staff does not specialize in vascular surgery, they can utilize CME credits from other specialty areas."

TRUTH: All medical and technical staff are required to have a minimum of 15 CME relevant to noninvasive vascular technology and obtained within three years of submitting the application. For physicians, at least 10 of the 15 credits must be AMA Category I. Credits relevant to noninvasive vascular technology do not include topics such as endovascular procedures, vascular surgery procedures, echocardiography and general ultrasound.

MISCONCEPTION: "By putting my application and case studies in binders and/or page protectors, it will help the ICAVL and reviewers."

TRUTH: Although placing the application materials into binders and page protectors creates a nice appearance, it in fact hinders the organization of an application when it reaches the ICAVL office. Because the ICAVL has a specific filing system to facilitate the identification of application sections, all materials will be subsequently removed from binders and page protectors, and in some instances might be returned to the laboratory. Please do not put application material into binders or page protectors.

MISCONCEPTION: "The lab cannot leave patient identification on application materials due to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations."

TRUTH: Under HIPAA guidelines, the ICAVL is considered a business associate and indeed can have access to patient information. The current ICAVL Accreditation Agreement includes an addendum defining the ICAVL as a business associate and defining its duties and obligations as such.

The ICAVL Board Of Directors and staff collaborate closely to ensure that the accreditation process and its associated policies provide a fair and equitable process for all applicant laboratories. Laboratory staff members are encouraged to contact the ICAVL office with their questions and concerns about what is actually required to achieve accreditation.

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