American Academy of Cardiovascular Perfusion

American Academy of Cardiovascular Perfusion

The American Academy of Cardiovascular Perfusion (AACP) is a professional organization in the United States dedicated to the field of cardiovascular perfusion, the science of providing extracorporeal circulation and respiratory support to patients. The AACP plays a crucial role in advancing the profession, setting standards for practice, promoting education and research, and advocating for the interests of its members and the patients they serve.

History

The American Academy of Cardiovascular Perfusion was established to address the growing need for a professional organization that could represent the interests of cardiovascular perfusionists, professionals specialized in operating cardiopulmonary bypass machines during cardiac surgery and other medical procedures that require circulatory support. Since its inception, the AACP has been at the forefront of developments in the field, contributing to significant advancements in patient care and safety.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the AACP is to foster the highest standards of cardiovascular perfusion, to promote education and research in the field, and to facilitate the exchange of information among professionals. Its objectives include:

• Enhancing the quality of patient care in cardiovascular surgery and related procedures.
• Promoting the professional development of its members through continuing education and certification.
• Supporting research initiatives that contribute to the advancement of cardiovascular perfusion.
• Advocating for the profession in healthcare policy and regulation.

Membership

Membership in the AACP is open to professionals involved in cardiovascular perfusion, including certified perfusionists, students enrolled in accredited perfusion education programs, and other healthcare professionals with an interest in the field. The AACP offers various membership categories, including active, associate, and student memberships, each with specific eligibility criteria and benefits.

Certification

The AACP recognizes the importance of certification in maintaining high professional standards. While the organization itself does not certify perfusionists, it supports and promotes certification through recognized bodies such as the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP). The ABCP is responsible for certifying perfusionists in the United States, and the AACP encourages its members to pursue and maintain ABCP certification.

Conferences and Education

One of the key activities of the AACP is organizing conferences and educational programs for its members. These events provide opportunities for perfusionists to learn about the latest developments in the field, share best practices, and earn continuing education credits required for certification renewal. The AACP's annual meeting is a highlight of the organization's calendar, featuring presentations, workshops, and networking events.

Research and Publications

The AACP is committed to advancing research in cardiovascular perfusion. It supports scientific studies and publications that contribute to the knowledge base of the profession and improve patient outcomes. The organization also publishes guidelines and position statements on various aspects of perfusion practice, providing valuable resources for its members and the wider healthcare community.

Advocacy

The American Academy of Cardiovascular Perfusion actively advocates for the interests of perfusionists and the patients they serve. This includes lobbying for favorable healthcare policies, promoting the recognition of perfusion as a vital component of cardiovascular care, and working to ensure that perfusion services are adequately reimbursed by insurance providers.

Conclusion

The American Academy of Cardiovascular Perfusion plays a pivotal role in the field of cardiovascular perfusion, promoting excellence in patient care, professional development, and research. Through its efforts, the AACP ensures that cardiovascular perfusionists are well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern healthcare and contribute to the successful outcomes of cardiac surgery and other procedures requiring extracorporeal circulation.