Government Agencies
The Food and Drug Administration: has multiple areas of responsibility which effect public health and safety including regulations of drugs, biological products and medical devices, and monitoring food supply, cosmetics and products that emit radiation. The FDA regulates the sale and distribution of tobacco products and approves and monitors the use of medical devices and products.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): contains a variety of information on topics relating to gastroenterology, endoscopy, hepatitis, colon cancer, as well as information in Spanish and English.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS): is part of the Department of Health and Human Services. In addition to administering rules, regulations and payments for Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP patients, CMS is responsible for key portions of the 2015 Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) law. CMS sets the billing codes for medicare procedures, for example, they determine how colonoscopies are billed (preventive vs. diagnostic), these codes impact all insurance coverage.
Accreditation Agencies
The Joint Commission: works to improve health care for the public, in collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating health care organizations and inspiring them to excel in providing safe and effective care of the highest quality and value. The Joint Commission is known for their Accreditation and Certification, gold seal of approval, National Patient Safety Goals and Infection Prevention Resources.
AAAHC: AHC accreditation means that the organization participates in on-going self evaluation, peer review and education to continuously improve its care and services. The organization also commits to a thorough, on-site survey by AAAHC surveyors, who are themselves health care professionals, at least every three years.