About Us

Accreditation Services and Specialized Programs

The National Dialysis Accreditation Commission offers a specialized accreditation program developed exclusively for the dialysis industry by seasoned dialysis professionals. NDAC is approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to grant deemed status for End-Stage Renal Disease facilities, providing a recognized path to Medicare certification. This accreditation is a voluntary process that allows dialysis providers to choose a private organization like NDAC to evaluate compliance with national standards. By achieving NDAC accreditation, providers demonstrate they meet or exceed the CMS Conditions for Coverage for ESRD facilities.

Our program is aligned with CMS expectations and survey protocols, offering dialysis providers a familiar, rigorous, and efficient alternative to traditional state health department certification. NDAC delivers a nationally consistent, clinically current, and CMS-compliant accreditation model. The use of updated Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation standards, interpretive clarity, and efficient coordination with state licensing authorities sets NDAC apart as a trusted partner in regulatory and clinical excellence.

Benefits of NDAC Accreditation

Dialysis providers that choose NDAC benefit from operational and regulatory advantages, including faster time-to-market for new clinic approvals, predictable survey intervals with re-surveys every 36 months, prompt reviews for service additions, and consistent surveyor interpretation without regional variation. NDAC’s survey processes mirror CMS protocols, including timelines for survey reports, plans of correction, and resolution of deficiencies. This ensures predictability, regulatory consistency, and ongoing survey readiness. Unlike state agencies, which may delay surveys for several years, NDAC is required to resurvey each accredited facility within 36 months, ensuring accountability and ongoing quality oversight.

Standards and Compliance

NDAC accreditation standards are well-aligned with CMS Conditions for Coverage for ESRD dialysis providers. A distinguishing feature is the integration of the 2019 AAMI recommendations, including updated thresholds for microbiological and endotoxin levels in water and dialysate. These industry-recognized benchmarks support enhanced infection control and evidence-based water quality practices, promoting improved patient safety and outcomes. Prior to the initiation of an NDAC accreditation survey, all dialysis providers receive a copy of the Interpretive Guidelines, which provide comprehensive explanations of each accreditation standard to facilitate understanding by clinical and administrative staff.

State Recognition and Life Safety Code Compliance

As of 2025, 26 U.S. states plus Puerto Rico recognize NDAC accreditation as a state license to operate, eliminating the need for redundant licensing inspections and reducing administrative burdens while maintaining compliance with state and federal oversight agencies. NDAC accreditation includes requirements for compliance with the National Fire Protection Association Life Safety Code, and NDAC is fully equipped to conduct comprehensive evaluations when required.

The NDAC 5-Step Program

NDAC’s 5-Step Program offers a streamlined path to accreditation and deemed status: connect with the team, sign the accreditation agreement, complete the application, ensure facility readiness, and host the unannounced NDAC survey. This structured approach ensures providers can achieve accreditation efficiently and effectively.

Explore the full accreditation process →