Before You Apply

Before You Apply | ECLS

Here are important things to know before you apply for the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) Award of Excellence. Find forms, resources and tools for award evaluation, and tips on how to prepare for the path to excellence. Also, understand application fees and deadlines.

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Criteria

Centers applying for the Award for Excellence in Life Support

Must be an ELSO member in good standing for at least 3 years
Must have supported an average of five (5) patients per year for the past 5 years
Must have reported all patients to the ELSO registry

After meeting these requirements, a Center may complete the ELSO Award for Excellence in Life Support application. A minimum score must be achieved on the application in order to be designated as a Center of Excellence. The application is reviewed using a validated and standardized Award Scoring Tool.

Centers applying for the Path to Excellence in Life Support

Must be an ELSO member in good standing
Must report all patients treated with ECLS to ELSO (there is no minimum patient requirement)

After meeting these requirements, a Center may complete the application for the Path to Excellence recognition. A minimum score must be achieved on the application in order to be designated as on the Path to Excellence. The application is reviewed using a validated and standardized Award Scoring Tool.

Achieving the Path to Excellence recognition allows the ECLS program to continue forward with patient care and the development of a robust quality review program that should allow them to meet criteria to apply for the ELSO Award for Excellence in Life Support designation.

Why Should I Apply?

The ELSO Award for Excellence in Life Support signifies to patients and families a commitment to exceptional patient care. It demonstrates to the health care community an assurance of high-quality standards, specialized equipment and supplies, defined patient protocols, and advanced education of all staff members.

ECLS Centers may use the award to market themselves as distinguished leaders in critical care as it provides evidence of the commitment of the institution to high quality state of the art healthcare. The ELSO Award of Excellence is recognized by the US News and World Report and Parents magazine as one criterion for top institutions.