Central Texas Medical Center awarded laboratory accreditation by joint commission

Central Texas Medical Center (CTMC) has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for Laboratory Services Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal of Approval s a symbol of quality that reflects an organization's commitment to providing safe and effective patient care.

CTMC underwent a rigorous onsite survey in November. During the review, a Joint Commission surveyor evaluated compliance with laboratory standards related to several areas, including document and process control, health care-associated conditions, risk reduction, and staff qualifications and competency. The surveyor also conducted on-site observations and interviews.

Pathologist John Lee Sang, M.D., shares, 'The lab team at CTMC is remarkable. I'm really proud of the great work they day every day. It's not surprising when we receive this accreditation because the crew is top-notch.'

The Joint Commission awards Laboratory Services Accreditation for a two-year cycle. The process allows laboratories to improve in a variety of areas from specimen collection to result reporting so they can be eligible for the distinction.

'CTMC is so pleased to receive lab accreditation again,' said Rick Plumlee, director of Laboratory Services at CTMC. 'Our pathologists and laboratory team work together on these important safety measures to provide the safest care for our community.'

Anthony Stahl, CTMC president/CEO adds, 'Patient safety is happening at every level on our campus, from the lab to the emergency department to the surgical suite. It's a mission that must be part of every facet of our care.'

The Joint Commission's laboratory standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The standards are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help organizations measure, assess and improve performance.