Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to frequently asked questions about CMLA and the accreditation process are below. If you cannot find an answer to your question here, please contact us.
Why should my laboratory pursue accreditation?
Accreditation is a voluntary, structured process of self‑evaluation and independent peer review adopted across the motion analysis community. CMLA accreditation demonstrates that a laboratory meets clearly defined criteria in three critical operational areas: administration, equipment, and data management and reporting.
The accreditation process supports continuous quality improvement and provides external verification that a laboratory delivers high‑quality motion analysis services recognized by peers in the field.
Why is Motion Laboratory accreditation important if the Laboratory is already accredited by JCAHO and/or CARF?
CMLA accreditation evaluates criteria specific to clinical motion laboratories that are not addressed by JCAHO or CARF, but are essential to high‑quality motion analysis services and the clinical decisions informed by them.
Is accreditation tied to reimbursement?
Not at this time.
Is the Commission for Motion Laboratory Accreditation (CMLA) part of the Gait and Clinical Movement Analysis Society (GCMAS)?
No. CMLA is an independent, not‑for‑profit organization that was established in 1997. It is supported by four Member Societies—APTA, AAOS, AAPM&R, and GCMAS—each of which appoints two liaisons to the Board of Directors.
How much does accreditation cost?
The accreditation fee and related information are available on the Application Information page.
What does the application fee support?
The application fee supports the administrative and operational functions required to conduct the accreditation process, including peer review and website infrastructure.
How is accreditation determined?
Each application is evaluated by a minimum of three expert peer reviewers using accreditation criteria, in accordance with the Laboratory Application Review Policy.
Are there different accreditation statuses?
Yes. Accreditation status reflects a laboratory’s stage within the review or renewal process. Detailed definitions are outlined in the Laboratory Application Review Policy.
How long after the application has been submitted will I be notified of a decision?
A response from the Review Panel will be provided within 90 days of the date the application is submitted and the payment is received. Additional details are available in the Laboratory Application Review Policy.
Is there a mechanism in place to appeal the accreditation decision if necessary?
Yes. Please review the Accreditation Decision Appeal Policy and Procedure.
How long is the period of accreditation?
The accreditation period is three (3) years.
How do I contact CMLA?
Applicants may contact CMLA through the communication channels provided on the CMLA website.
Is there a separate application for research laboratories?
No. Research laboratories are evaluated using the same criteria applied to clinical laboratories.
Is accreditation required?
No. Accreditation is strictly voluntary.
While not required, completing this process has many benefits. Read more here.
If my application has remaining deficiencies after the first review and is assigned “Accreditation Under Review” status, when may I resubmit, and may I resubmit more than once during the 12‑month revision period?
Applicants who are not eligible for Accreditation after the first review may resubmit their application as soon as they are ready and may do so multiple times within the 12‑month period following the formal notification letter.
Our accreditation is expiring soon, and we would like to seek re‑accreditation. Do we need to answer all the questions and pay the fee again, even if nothing has changed since our last application?
Yes. Re‑accreditation applications must be complete and demonstrate continuous quality improvement since the prior review cycle.
Can laboratories outside the United States apply?
Yes. International applicants may apply provided all application materials are submitted in English and equivalency to U.S. criteria is documented. Additional details are available in the Translation Policy.
If our laboratory does not perform invasive procedures, what should be reported?
Laboratories that do not perform invasive procedures should clearly state this in each relevant section of the application. Fine‑wire EMG is not required for accreditation.
What are the minimum services a lab must provide to be considered for accreditation?
At minimum, a CMLA-accredited motion analysis lab must routinely complete comprehensive history and physical examinations, 3D kinematic, 3D kinetic, and surface EMG analysis. It must also provide interpretation of these results, and use them to inform recommendations for medical, rehabilitative, and surgical interventions.