CAAS News

Beginning January 1, 2026, CAAS Standards Version 4.0 is the only standard agencies may use when seeking CAAS accreditation or reaccreditation. Earlier versions (including Version 3.0) are available for historical reference only and may not be used for application or compliance review purposes. Agencies must use Version 4.0 for: New accreditation applications Reaccreditation submissions Compliance review and site reviews Accreditation determinations

As part of our ongoing transition to CAAS Standards Version 4.0, we want to remind you of an important upcoming deadline. If your agency intends to submit an application for accreditation using Standards Version 3.0, your complete application package and fees must be received by CAAS no later than December 31, 2025. Beginning January 1, 2026, CAAS will only accept applications prepared using CAAS Standards Version 4.0. This ensures all accredited agencies continue to meet the most current, ANSI-approved national standards for quality, safety, and operational excellence. Please review your plans and timelines to ensure your submission aligns with this ...

In this episode of Beyond the Checklist, host Kevin Rhea sits down with Sarah McEntee, Executive Director of the Commission on Accreditation for Ambulance Services (CAAS). Together, they explore how CAAS has been shaping excellence in EMS for decades—helping agencies deliver safe, reliable, and high-quality care to communities across the country. Sarah shares her personal journey into leadership, the mission and impact of CAAS, and how accreditation goes far beyond paperwork to transform organizations, improve patient outcomes, and strengthen agency culture. The conversation dives into the evolving landscape of EMS, from workforce challenges to innovation and ...

Glenview, IL – July 1, 2025 — The Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS) proudly announces the release and official implementation of the CAAS Ground Vehicle Standard (GVS) V4.0, effective today. This update marks a significant milestone in our ongoing mission to raise the bar for safety, performance, and patient care in the mobile healthcare industry. Developed through consensus and industry expertise, GVS V4.0 reflects the latest best practices, regulatory requirements, and technological advancements for new and remounted ambulances. Notably, V4.0 incorporates critical enhancements to vehicle safety, structural integrity, electrical systems, ...

The Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS) today announced an updated application fee structure that will take effect on January 1, 2026. This adjustment marks the first fee change since CAAS was founded in 1992 and reflects the organization’s continued commitment to setting the national standard for ambulance service accreditation. To better align with today’s EMS environment and ensure equitable costs across a broader range of agency sizes, CAAS will transition from its current three-tiered fee model to a more scalable five-tiered fee structure based on annual transport volume: Annual Transport Volume Current Application Submission ...

Glenview, Illinois (January 27, 2025) — The Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS) proudly announces the release of CAAS Standards Version 4.0. Approved as a national standard by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Version 4.0 represents a significant update to the CAAS standards that guide ambulance services and medical response systems, ensuring the highest levels of quality and safety in mobile patient care. “We are excited to introduce CAAS Standards Version 4.0, which represents our commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in EMS,” said Kathy Rinnert, MD , Chair of the CAAS Standards Version 4.0 Committee. ...