What does JAG accreditation mean? 

JAG accreditation is awarded to endoscopy services that have undergone a formal assessment and demonstrated that they meet the JAG quality standards. These standards cover every aspect of an endoscopy service, ensuring that services:

JAG accreditation gives patients confidence that they will receive safe, high quality care, no matter which JAG accredited endoscopy service they attend. For services, accreditation is a mark of excellence – demonstrating pride in delivering high quality, patient‑centred care. It also supports opportunities for investment, growth, and continued development.

What does not being JAG accredited mean?

Not having JAG accreditation does not mean that an endoscopy service is unsafe or delivering poor‑quality care. Many services work closely with JAG to secure the resources and support they need in order to meet the accreditation standards, and JAG recognises the difference between services that are actively engaged in the accreditation process and those that are not.

Some services already meet many of the JAG standards but are unable to achieve accreditation because certain requirements, often those involving investment or infrastructure, cannot be met at that time. JAG continues to support these services in working towards accreditation wherever possible.

If I have a concern about a JAG accredited unit, what should I do?

If you have a concern about a JAG accredited endoscopy service, the first step is to raise it directly with the service. Every organisation has a complaints policy that explains how to submit a concern and who you can escalate it to if you are not satisfied with the response. Many hospitals also have a Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS). PALS can offer support, help you understand the complaints process, and act on your behalf if needed. JAG does not typically investigate individual patient complaints.

How can I get involved?

Most hospitals will have a patient user group which will provide opportunities for patients to support their hospital. Your hospital may also have volunteering opportunities. You may also want to look into becoming involved with a patient charity; further information on relevant charities is available on the British Society of Gastroenterology website.

Our lay assessors

Lay assessors are non-clinical volunteers who provide an independent, patient-focused perspective during the assessment of clinical services. They are integral members of accreditation teams and their role includes reviewing patient documents, such as information leaflets, interviewing patients who have recently undergone procedures and assessing the overall patient pathway within a hospital service. We have a team of over 30 lay assessors who are involved in JAG accreditation assessments, and every assessment team includes a lay assessor to ensure the patient's voice is fully represented.