LCME accreditation occurs every eight years. This comprehensive review process ensures that medical schools meet national standards of quality in medical education.

The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine (UCCOM) will begin its next Self-Study Period in May 2026, culminating in the LCME site visit scheduled for October 2027.

The LCME has a dual reporting structure, serving both the American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) and the American Medical Association (AMA).

LCME accreditation ensures that medical education programs meet established national standards, preparing graduates to enter residency programs and practice medicine with the necessary skills, knowledge, and professionalism. Accreditation protects the interests of students, the public, and the medical profession by promoting quality improvement and accountability.

The Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) process is an ongoing effort to monitor, evaluate, and enhance the college’s programs and operations. By regularly assessing and addressing potential areas for improvement, the CQI process ensures UCCOM meets and exceeds LCME accreditation standards.

The CQI Oversight Committee, chaired by the Executive Vice Dean for the College of Medicine and co-chaired by the Associate Dean for Program Evaluation, CQI, and Accreditation, oversees the CQI process. The committee monitors data, conducts annual reviews, oversees mid-cycle accreditation assessments, and provides recommendations to the Dean to promote continuous improvement.

The CQI Oversight Committee is composed of a diverse group of senior leaders, faculty, and students to ensure broad representation and expertise. Members include:

• Executive Vice Dean (Chair)
• Associate Dean for Program Evaluation, CQI, and Accreditation (Co-Chair)
• Senior Associate Dean for Educational Affairs
• Department Chairs (both clinical and basic science)
• Faculty at Large (both clinical and basic science)
• Student Representatives

The Associate Dean plays a multifaceted role, including:

• Serving as the Faculty Accreditation Lead for the LCME self-study process.
• Overseeing program evaluation across the continuum of medical education—from pre-matriculation to post-graduation—to ensure that the program’s objectives are met.
• Collaborating with stakeholders to develop accreditation action plans and implement CQI processes.

The Office for Program Evaluation, CQI, and Accreditation provides comprehensive support for all efforts related to accreditation, including program evaluation and CQI initiatives. This office ensures coordination, compliance, and preparation for accreditation milestones.

LCME accreditation is essential for medical schools to maintain their standing as accredited institutions. It ensures that students are eligible to take licensure exams, apply for residency programs, and receive federal financial aid. Accreditation also demonstrates the institution’s commitment to delivering high-quality medical education.

Key milestones include:

• Annual Monitoring: Regular reviews of data to assess compliance with accreditation standards.
• Mid-Cycle Review: A thorough assessment of accreditation status and identification of areas for improvement.
• Self-Study Period: Comprehensive institutional evaluation to identify strengths and address gaps in preparation for the site visit.
• Site Visit: LCME reviewers visit the institution to verify compliance and evaluate progress.

Faculty, staff, and students are integral to the accreditation and CQI processes. Participation may include:

• Contributing to data collection and analysis for accreditation reports.
• Engaging in the self-study process by providing feedback and insights.
• Collaborating on action plans to address accreditation standards.

The Associate Dean for Program Evaluation, CQI, and Accreditation coordinates these efforts, ensuring that all stakeholders, including students, have a voice in the process.

For more information, please contact the Office for Program Evaluation, CQI, and Accreditation. This office oversees all accreditation activities and provides resources to support stakeholders involved in these efforts.