ACCA Award of Excellence

ACCA’s long-standing Award of Excellence in cardiovascular administration is presented annually by the American Academy of Medical Administrators and the American College of Cardiovascular Administrators (ACCA). This award recognizes a Cardiovascular Administrator who has contributed significantly to the improvement of cardiovascular care and the advancement of cardiovascular administration. Such an individual will have demonstrated outstanding leadership and innovative solutions to the many challenges faced today in the delivery of cardiac care.

Nomination Process

• Both self-nominations and nominations by others are acceptable.
• Nominations are due December 15, 2012.
• Nominations require completion of AAMA’s online Nomination Form.
• Following receipt of qualified nominations, candidates will be asked to complete an application detailing their background, accomplishments and demonstration of core competencies.
• Deadline for receipt of candidate’s complete application package is January 6, 2013.
• Candidates will be notified of the final selection in February, 2013.

Award Criteria

Candidates must demonstrate five (5) leadership qualities representing the core competencies of cardiovascular leadership, as well as:

• 5 years’ experience related to cardiovascular leadership
• Current ACCA/AAMA membership
• Current responsibility of leading a cardiovascular team. All levels of leadership are acceptable. For example, candidates may lead an entire cardiac service product line or a department/program within a cardiac delivery system.
• Recently retired members meeting these criteria will be considered for this award.

Core Competencies

Leadership: Demonstrates ability to lead organizations, physicians, colleagues and/or staff to improve the overall healthcare process and the experience for the patient and family seeking cardiac care. Focuses on strategic long-range view, as well as immediate operational needs of the organization. Mentors others in the organization to develop strong leadership skills.

Creativity: Demonstrates ability to develop new methods of delivering health care that result in greater efficiency for the overall organization, or result in a more positive patient care experience.

Involvement: Is committed not only to the organization for which they work, but also to organizations that contribute to the well-being of the community.

Knowledge: Possesses a strong understanding of the cardiovascular healthcare world, as well as the administrative knowledge needed to direct a cardiovascular team. Shares this knowledge with their organization, ACCA, and other health-related organizations.

Professionalism: Demonstrates ethical behavior and strives for excellence. Is a continual learner and demonstrates the willingness to improve oneself through educational experiences. Stays abreast of changes in their field through continuing education and participation in professional organizations.

Recognition of Recipient

The recipient is recognized by ACCA leadership at ACCA’s Annual Cardiovascular Administrators’ Leadership Conference, in AAMA/ACCA publications, and on our website.

Past Recipients*

^*From 1993-2005, the award recognized individuals who had demonstrated outstanding lifetime achievements in cardiology which had a profound effect on the quality of patient care in the United States. New criteria were initiated beginning in 2006.