For immediate release: Dec. 3, 2012

NORTHAMPTON – Last year, Cooley Dickinson Hospital’s Laboratory processed more than 875,000 lab tests. These tests are critical because vital diagnostic information can be learned about a patient from a blood test or a tissue biopsy.

Last month, two independent organizations, the AABB (American Association of Blood Banks) and the College of American Pathologists, each announced that Cooley Dickinson Hospital’s Laboratory had successfully met or exceeded standards set by these national organizations.

The AABB accreditation demonstrates that Cooley Dickinson’s Laboratory staff are collecting, processing, testing, distributing, and administering blood and cell products that comply with AABB standards, Code of Federal Regulations, and other federal guidance documents.

“Cooley Dickinson has sought AABB Accreditation because this program validates and promotes a level of professional and technical expertise that contributes to quality performance and patient safety,” said Catherine Reed, director, Laboratory Services.

Of the College of the American Pathologists (CAP) recognition, Lisa Glantz, MD, pathologist, said, CAP accreditation goes above and beyond regulatory compliance to achieve the highest standards of excellence that positively impacts patient safety. Cooley Dickinson is among the more than 7,500 laboratories that meet the standards of the world’s most rigorous accreditation program.”

During a CAP accreditation process, inspectors examine the past two years’ worth of Laboratory’s records and quality control procedures. They also review Lab staff qualifications, equipment, facilities, the safety program and safety record, and the overall management of the Lab.

The blood bank and the chemistry, cytology, hematology, histology, microbiology, phlebotomy, serology and urinalysis specialties comprise Cooley Dickinson Hospital’s onsite Laboratory.

The accreditations are effective through August 2014.

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