Abstract
<jats:p>Background: Accreditation has become a central mechanism for strengthening healthcare quality systems globally. However, despite the proliferation of accreditation programs, limited empirical literature describes structured methodologies for developing national accreditation standards, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Objective: To describe and analyze the systemic methodology employed by the General Authority for Healthcare Accreditation and Regulation (GAHAR) in Egypt for the development and revision of accreditation standards, and to examine the role of hospital participation in this process. Approach: A descriptive policy analysis was conducted outlining GAHAR’s structured framework for standards development. The process includes stakeholder needs assessment, multidisciplinary drafting committees, external expert review, field testing, pilot surveys assessing inter-rater reliability, editorial harmonization, formal approval mechanisms, and continuous post-publication feedback integration. Key Findings: GAHAR’s methodology aligns with recognized international accreditation paradigms, including committee-based drafting, evidence-informed review, structured pilot validation, and iterative refinement. The inclusion of healthcare facilities and frontline professionals enhances contextual relevance, feasibility, and system ownership. Conclusion: A structured, participatory, and evidence-informed approach to accreditation standards development strengthens national quality governance frameworks. Hospital engagement is not merely consultative but foundational to ensuring implementable, contextually appropriate, and sustainable accreditation systems within LMIC settings.</jats:p>