The University of Alabama at Birmingham Emergency Department has reached a significant milestone, earning the first Level 1 Accreditation from the American College of Emergency Physicians in the United States. This accreditation represents the gold standard in emergency care and signifies UAB Medicine’s commitment to excellence in patient care. The new designation is a testament to years of dedication of advancing emergency medical care by implementing evidence-based policies and fostering a well-supported, effective emergency care environment.
A Level 1 emergency department must meet and exceed the program’s 34 common criteria, as well as additional requirements in physician and nurse staffing, in the availability of critical personnel and resources for emergency care, and in creating a safe environment for patients and staff. This accreditation signifies the culmination of efforts involving faculty, staff and institutional partners committed to advancing emergency medicine. This milestone reinforces UAB’s role as a leader in health care innovation, demonstrating the institution’s ability to translate academic discovery into tangible advancements in emergency care.
“The attainment of the ACEP Level 1 Accreditation underscores UAB’s commitment to excellence in emergency care,” said Marie-Carmelle Elie, M.D., professor and chair of the UAB Department of Emergency Medicine. “This distinction is a testament to the department’s steadfast dedication to quality, patient-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration. This recognition would not have been possible without the invaluable contributions of operational directors, service line leaders, ancillary providers, and the continued support of UAB Hospital, the UAB Health System and the UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine.”
Over the last few years, UAB leadership has taken steps to expand its capabilities in response to evolving challenges in emergency medicine. In 2022, UAB President Ray L. Watts established the UAB Emergency Medicine Task Force, providing a framework to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. This initiative paved the way for a transformative era in emergency medicine. In 2023, Governor Kay Ivey authorized a $50 million appropriation from the state to support the expansion of UAB’s emergency department, which will allow the department to continue to set the standard in emergency care in the community and surrounding areas.
“While this achievement is worthy of celebration, it also serves as a catalyst for continued progress,” Elie said. “UAB remains committed to pushing the boundaries of emergency medicine through ongoing research, educational initiatives and the strategic expansion of its emergency department. This accreditation marks not the conclusion of a journey, but the beginning of an even greater era of growth, innovation and service to the community.”
UAB Emergency Medicine is also ACEP-accredited in geriatrics at our Highlands location and ACEP-accredited in pain and addiction care at the main campus.