American College of Cardiology

The ACCF supports physician ownership in facilities, equipment or services that benefit patients through the delivery of appropriate, high quality, medical care.

Facilities owned in whole or in part by physicians who then refer patients to these facilities should strive to enhance quality of care, efficiency, and patient access, while ensuring that ownership interests are directed to improving the delivery of care through implementation of quality systems and measures. This dedication to clinical excellence should be demonstrated by adherence to the ACCF’s evidence-based Practice Guidelines, Quality Standards, and Appropriateness Criteria, as well as participation in quality reporting initiatives such as the National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR) and Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) National Database.

Additionally, physician-owned facilities should—as appropriate—pursue laboratory accreditation through the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission, conduct physician certifications, and establish credentialing of support personnel.

Hospital facilities must comply with all Medicare regulations. In particular, hospital facilities must have written policies for managing medical emergencies that occur on site, and must not rely on 911 as a substitute for providing patients emergency services, such as appraisal and initial treatment of emergencies in compliance with Medicare program requirements.

The benefits of physician ownership must be made equally accessible to all patients, with no distinctions made based upon economic considerations. Physician ownership must also be clearly disclosed and transparent to all patients using these facilities.
Physician-owned entities should adhere to all state and federal regulations and abide by the American Medical Association Code of Medical Ethics and the American College of Cardiology’s ethical guidelines.