JMC-Clayton lab earns accreditation

May 6, 2010

In the six months since opening, the laboratory staff at Johnston Medical Center-Clayton has accomplished a noteworthy feat: accreditation from the College of American Pathologists.
The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program is internationally recognized, and it’s the only one of its kind that uses teams of practicing laboratory professionals as inspectors.

“It’s a lengthy, rigorous, labor-intensive process,” said Jackie Ring, chief operating officer at JMC-Clayton. “The staff worked efficiently to achieve a glowing inspection summary.”

In February, inspectors did a thorough review of processes, policies, quality control measures, and personnel documentation and training. In all, the team reviewed 10,000 potential audit points.
Lab employees began preparing for the inspection in May of 2009—about three months before they could begin setting up equipment and stocking supplies. “Back in August, we just had walls, floors, sinks and doors,” said Candice Lee, lab manager. “Labs don’t typically win accreditation six months after opening.”

The accreditation program helps laboratories achieve the highest standards of excellence and assures patients that they are receiving accurate, reliable service.

JMC-Clayton is an outpatient diagnostic center and freestanding emergency department owned by Johnston Health. The campus is located on N.C. 42 West between Amelia Church Road and the U.S. 70 Bypass of Clayton. The center opened last October.