The American College of Surgeons (ACS) is a professional organization of surgeons founded in 1913 to improve the quality of care for surgical patients. It is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.
The mission of the ACS is to improve the care of the surgical patient and to safeguard standards of care in an optimal and ethical practice environment. To achieve this mission, the ACS provides a range of services and programs to its members and the broader surgical community.
One of the key functions of the ACS is the accreditation of hospitals and surgical centers. The ACS sets standards for quality of care and conducts site visits to evaluate facilities for compliance with those standards. Hospitals and surgical centers that meet ACS standards receive accreditation, which serves as a mark of quality and excellence in surgical care.
The ACS also provides educational and training programs for surgeons at all stages of their careers. These programs include conferences, workshops, online courses, and continuing education opportunities. The ACS also provides resources for surgical research and helps to develop guidelines and best practices for surgical care.
In addition to its work in the United States, the ACS is also involved in global health initiatives. It partners with organizations around the world to improve surgical care in low- and middle-income countries, and it provides educational resources and training programs for surgeons in those settings.
Overall, the American College of Surgeons plays a crucial role in improving the quality of surgical care and promoting best practices in surgery. Its work helps to ensure that surgical patients receive the highest quality care possible, both in the United States and around the world.
