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OSSI Definitions & Milestones

Defining a Hospital Facility

The OSSI program addresses bariatric care that is provided on an inpatient basis in hospital facilities. The program’s requirements pertain to bariatric surgeons, the hospital where they have privileges, and the surgical practice, which is where pre- and postoperative care is typically provided. Together, these three entities form the bariatric “center” that applies to and ultimately receives the “center of excellence” designation. The hospital requirements also cover any affiliated outpatient facility that provides bariatric surgery care and is located within one mile of the hospital.

Earning the OSSI Designation: Two Milestones

Bariatric surgeons and their hospital facilities are encouraged to apply to the OSSI program as soon as they commit to establishing a culture of excellence within their bariatric program. Becoming a OSSI designee involves two major milestones:

  • Provisional Status
    Surgeons and facilities are able to achieve provisional status as soon as they meet the program’s provisional qualifications. These minimum standards are easily achieved and based on the requirements for OSSI designation. Provisional approval, which typically occurs within one week of application submission, does not require a site inspection. Provisional status must be achieved before a center can apply for designation. Importantly, surgeons and hospitals may not publicly announce or market provisional status. Centers must achieve designation before promoting their involvement in the OSSI program. Learn more about OSSI provisional qualifications.
  • Designation (Full Approval)
    Surgeons and facilities are fully approved for OSSI designation when they comply with the requirements that are in effect when they submit their application for designation or renewal. A comprehensive site inspection is conducted to verify compliance. Surgeons and hospitals are encouraged to publicly announce and market their achievement once they receive the OSSI designation. Learn more about OSSI designation requirements.

Getting Started and Program Support

The first step in the OSSI process is to register online, which typically takes only a few minutes. SRC Support is available to answer questions about the OSSI program. Representatives are available Monday – Friday from 8:30 am – 5:30 pm Eastern time at +1.919.792.3770 or via email at srcsupport@surgicalreview.org (srcsupport null@null surgicalreview NULL.org).