On November 29, 2023, Accreditation Canada’s Echocardiography Quality Improvement (EQI) team, in collaboration with the Ontario Association of Cardiologists (OAC), hosted a well-attended virtual information session on EQI Program Standards. Participants striving to meet accreditation standards in Cardiology labs (hospital and private facilities) engaged in this annual interactive session with EQI experts. The collaborative efforts of EQI and OAC teams have led to an accreditation program that prioritizes the needs of both patients and medical practitioners.

The presentation focused on accreditation standards, placing special emphasis on challenging criteria for facilities. The importance of meeting these Standards include:

1. Echocardiography labs can ensure safe care and accurate diagnoses are provided to patients,
2. Cardiologists and cardiac sonographers continue to improve in their own practice, thereby maintaining their knowledge and skills in the field,
3. Quality assurance practices are implemented in all areas of the lab.

In Ontario, all echocardiography labs must meet EQI program standards. Accreditation Canada’s EQI program ensures consistent standards of care for patients receiving diagnostic cardiac ultrasounds across the province, regardless of geographical location. Since its inception in 2012, the program has significantly enhanced patient care by ensuring timely, accurate and appropriate testing.

For more information and to view the recording of this session, please visit the link below:

https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/recording/5035694421515892654.