PCHS LABORATORY DEPARTMENT RECEIVES "ZERO-DEFICIENCY" SURVEY

The Phillips County Hospital's Laboratory Department earned a "Zero-Deficiency" certification last week during a State Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) survey. This survey evaluates compliance with established quality standards for all laboratory testing; including the accuracy, reliability, and timeliness of patient test results.

The CLIA survey compliance requirements consist of being familiar with all regulatory requirements; ensuring that all positions in the laboratory are filled by qualified personnel; establishing and maintaining a written policy, process, and procedure manual; and participate in a proficiency testing program appropriate for the test menu. The survey also checks to make sure instrument calibration, maintenance, and quality controls are performed as required; instrument performance specifications have been verified; the security of the laboratory information system (LIS) is verified and that all required documentation is maintained in accordance with CLIA requirements.

"I am very proud of our Laboratory staff, who strive to provide high-quality and compassionate service every day and who truly care about the patients that they serve. This survey result is evidence of the excellent work that they do on a regular basis," said Becky Levin, Laboratory Manager.