Ch1: Regulatory Agencies

Question 1

The Joint Commission

Answer 1

Sets standards of care to ensure quality and reliability of health care Surveys are accepted by Medicare (reimbursement) Laboratory tests must meet The Joint Commission’s accuracy standards Laboratories must meet procedure standards

Question 2

College of American Pathologists (CAP)

Answer 2

Proficiency samples are sent to laboratories by CAP for accuracy checks Inspects lab procedures and laboratory results The Joint Commission accepts CAP inspections

Question 3

National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)

Answer 3

International agency for accreditation and approval of education programs in clinical laboratory sciences and related health care professions Accreditation approved by on-site inspections of facility to ensure program meets certain educational standards Competencies must be met by student in order for educational program to exist

Question 4

Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI, formerly NCCLS)

Answer 4

Establishes laboratory guidelines and procedures Consists of representatives of the laboratory and laboratory industry Maintains uniformity of laboratory procedures on a national basis

Question 5

Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1988 (CLIA)

Answer 5

Enforced by a committee of inspectors Main goal is to protect patients from receiving inaccurate results

Question 6

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Answer 6

Regulations enforced by a committee of inspectors Establishes and enforces safety standards for employees Can issue fines if there are violations