The Power of Peer-Based Inspection Models in Laboratories
Summary
- Peer-based inspection model benefits both inspected labs and inspection teams
- Specialty inspectors provide valuable insight for complex specialties
- CAP inspections thoroughly examine every discipline within a laboratory
Power of Peer Inspections
Accreditation programs are essential for maintaining high-quality patient safety and care in laboratories. Our unique, peer-based inspection model benefits both the laboratories being inspected and the inspection teams. Led by pathologists/directors, our inspection teams include trained, practicing laboratory professionals who understand the challenges faced in everyday workflows. This allows for the exchange of best practices and ensures the highest quality of care for patients.
The expertise of our inspection teams is tailored to the size and scope of each laboratory, providing a valuable educational benefit. Having a team from a comparable institution with relevant experience allows for idea sharing and understanding of how to deal with various issues effectively.
Specialty Inspectors Provide Valuable Insight
Only the CAP utilizes specialty inspectors for highly complex specialties such as molecular pathology, clinical biochemical genetics, cytogenetics, histocompatibility, and flow cytometry. These specialty inspectors understand the unique issues and technologies within their specialty, providing valuable insights and practical advice during inspections.
Feedback from laboratories that have experienced inspections with specialty inspectors has been overwhelmingly positive, with directors noting the expertise and close collaboration in ensuring all requirements are met.
In-Depth Inspections Across All Areas
While some accreditors may offer only a high-level overview of laboratory performance, CAP inspections thoroughly examine every discipline within a laboratory. Inspectors use the R.O.A.D. (Read, Observe, Ask, Discover) methodology to conduct efficient, comprehensive, and educational inspections.
- Read: Inspectors review laboratory documents to guide further inspection techniques
- Observe: Examine laboratory activity and compare it to documented policies and procedures
- Ask: Ask probing questions to corroborate findings uncovered using other techniques
- Discover: Drill down using various techniques to understand processes and review multiple requirements simultaneously
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