Which of the following processes is mandatory for health care facilities?

Licensure is a mandatory process for health care facilities because it is a legal requirement established by state laws and regulations. All healthcare facilities must obtain a license to operate within a specific state. This process ensures that these facilities meet minimum standards of safety, quality, and care, thereby protecting the health and welfare of the public.

Without proper licensure, a healthcare facility cannot legally provide services, and operating without a license can result in significant penalties, including fines and closure. This requirement varies by state, but it is universally applied across the healthcare industry to ensure compliance with local laws pertaining to patient care and facility operation.

In contrast, while accreditation and certification are important for demonstrating quality and compliance with certain standards—such as those set by recognized organizations—they are typically voluntary and not legally required to operate. AHA registration is related to membership and does not have a regulatory impact on a facility's ability to function. Thus, licensure stands out as the critical, legally mandated process for all healthcare entities.