Pillars of Health Care Architecture
An Ongoing Collaborative Alliance
The four organizations below are allied to advance health care architecture. The AIA Academy of Architecture for Health (AAH) was founded in 1946, and each of the other three organizations was created by members of AAH to advance specific aspects of the profession. The leaders of all four organizations have committed to foster collaboration where it is beneficial and to improve our collective efficiency by clarifying the roles of each group to avoid duplication of services. Each organization remains fully independent, but members of all four groups meet regularly to continue to enrich this important alliance. We urge you to visit each organization’s website to learn more.
AIA Academy of Architecture for Health (AAH) – Education and Networking
The AIA Academy of Architecture for Health provides knowledge that supports the design of healthy environments by creating education and networking opportunities for members of—and those touched by—the health care architecture profession. It is one of the most active of the 21 AIA Knowledge Communities.
American College of Healthcare Architects (ACHA) – Board Certification
The American College of Healthcare Architects was created in 1999 to offer board certification to licensed health care architects through an independent process involving a portfolio review, an assessment by peer architects, and a rigorous examination. It is the first and only design specialty so recognized by the AIA.
Academy of Architecture for Health Foundation (AAHF) – Research Sponsorship
The mission of the Academy of Architecture for Health Foundation is to support the AIA Academy of Architecture for Health and to enhance the knowledge and effectiveness of those who create health care environments through the funding of critical educational and research activities.
Facility Guidelines Institute (FGI) – Standards Development
The mission of the Facility Guidelines Institute (FGI) is to establish and promote consensus-based guidelines and publications, advised by research, to advance quality health care. FGI is responsible for regular publication of an updated edition of the Guidelines for Design and Construction documents and manages the cyclical revision process and the 100+-person multidisciplinary committee responsible for updating the Guidelines content.