Hospital Clinical Laboratory Accredited

April 3, 2010

The Helen  Hayes Hospital Clinical Laboratory has been awarded accreditation by the  Accreditation Committee of the College of American Pathologists (CAP),  based on the results of a recent on-site inspection.

The CAP  Laboratory Accreditation Program, initiated in the 1960’s, is recognized  by the federal government as being equal to or more stringent that the  government’s own inspection program. During the accreditation process,  inspectors examine the laboratory’s records and quality control of  procedures for the preceding two years. CAP inspectors also examine  laboratory staff qualifications, the laboratory’s equipment, facilities,  safety program and record, as well as the overall management of the  laboratory. This stringent inspection program is designed to  specifically ensure the highest standard of care for the laboratory’s  patients.

“This  accreditation represents our commitment to providing the highest level  of services to our patients,” states Steven Spitalnik, M.D., Laboratory  Director. “The staff of our Clinical Lab also works closely with  referring healthcare professionals, to ensure that they receive accurate  and timely reports.”

The College  of American Pathologists is the world’s largest association composed  exclusively of board certified pathologists and is widely considered the  leader in laboratory quality assurance. Helen Hayes Hospital is one of  the nation’s leading specialty physical rehabilitation hospitals,  restoring mobility and function to individuals recovering from traumatic  injuries and chronic disabling illnesses.