Your feedback matters. Bernie is a learning system, and your input helps AAAHC improve future responses. Please use the feedback buttons under each response:
To get the most relevant guidance, interact with Bernie the same way you would a knowledgeable colleague by providing clear context and ask a focused question.
Bernie is AAAHC’s AI-powered assistant, designed to deliver fast, practical, Standards-based guidance that supports organizations throughout their accreditation or certification process and across every stage of their quality improvement journey.
Inspired by the legacy of Bernard A. Kershner and AAAHC’s commitment to continuous quality improvement, Bernie helps organizations remain informed, prepared, and 1095 Strong.
Built from AAAHC’s trusted body of knowledge—including AAAHC Standards handbooks, policies, FAQs, and educational resources—Bernie helps organizations:
AAAHC continuously updates Bernie’s content as Standards, official guidance and educational resources evolve.
Bernie is designed to support—not replace—professional judgment or direct engagement with AAAHC staff and Surveyors.
Bernie helps organizations navigate Standards, reinforce readiness, and identify opportunities for education and improvement. Trends in user questions may also inform AAAHC’s development of additional guidance and resources.
Bernie provides informational guidance only. It does not provide legal, clinical, billing, or accreditation/certification determinations, and does not guarantee survey outcomes or compliance status. Use of Bernie does not modify the AAAHC Accreditation/Certification Handbooks, AAAHC policies and procedures, or any applicable laws and regulations. In the event of any discrepancy between a response from Bernie and AAAHC Standards, policies, or applicable laws and regulations, the official AAAHC publications and governing requirements always prevail. Organizations remain responsible for meeting all applicable laws, regulations, and AAAHC requirements.
Bernie interactions may be logged and reviewed by AAAHC to monitor quality, improve the tool, and identify common education needs, in accordance with AAAHC Privacy and data-governance policies, and Terms of Use.
Always consult original source documents and your legal/regulatory advisors for final decisions. For official clarifications, policy interpretations, or organization-specific concerns, connect with AAAHC through Here to Help!