For providers in the 70 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) that make up round two of competitive bidding, accreditation is a real and pressing prospect. All round two providers must apply for accreditation no later than May 14, 2008. After applying, accreditation must be achieved by October 31, 2008.

We asked four accreditation experts about these deadlines, and the all-encompassing deadline of September 30, 2009. How long does accreditation take? If you are within 50 to 100 miles of a round two MSA, should you be concerned? Are backlogs a threat to timely accreditation? Are managed care and Medicaid payors likely to follow Medicare’s lead and require accreditation? For answers to these questions and more, have a listen to the following experts:

Sandra C. Canally, RN
President
The Compliance Team

Mary K. Nicholas, MHA
Executive Director
Healthcare Quality Association on Accreditation (HQAA)

Beth Kolbe, PT
Resource Specialist
Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)

Thomas E. Cesar
President
Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC)