UPMC Horizon laboratories receive College of American Pathologists accreditation

Greenville and Farrell, PA — The laboratories at UPMC Horizon’s Shenango Valley and Greenville campuses have received accreditation from the Commission on Laboratory Accreditation of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) based on the results of recent onsite inspections. The laboratories are among 6,000 CAP-accredited laboratories nationwide.

The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program, which began in the early 1960s, is recognized by the federal government as being equal to or more stringent than the government’s own inspection program.

During the CAP accreditation process, inspectors examine the laboratory’s records and quality control of procedures for two years. CAP inspectors also examine the entire staff’s qualifications; the laboratory’s equipment, facilities, safety program, and record; and the overall management of the laboratory. This rigorous inspection program is designed to ensure the highest standard of care for patients.

This was the first year the UPMC Horizon laboratories underwent an unannounced survey, which is a new format. CAP surveys previously were announced ahead of time. UPMC Horizon has seen a 14 percent increase in laboratory volume during the past year.

“We are pleased to announce our accreditation, and we are pleased the unannounced survey went as well as announced surveys have in the past,” says Lina Perry, MD, medical director, and Edward Castor, administrative director of Laboratory Services at UPMC Horizon.

The CAP, an advocate for high quality and cost-effective medical care, is a medical society serving nearly 16,000 physician members and the laboratory community throughout the world. It is the world’s largest association composed exclusively of pathologists and is widely considered the leader in laboratory quality assurance.

Contact: Erin Palko, public relations manager, 724-589-8107