Clinical Pathology Accreditation: a quality system for diagnostic pathology services

Abstract

Clinical Pathology Accreditation is a UK‐based scheme for the accreditation of pathology services. It was established 5 years ago and has now been adopted by over two thirds of UK laboratories. It offers a complete system for quality assurance and differs from standards such as EN 45001:1989 by focusing on the pre‐ and post‐analytical aspects of pathology, as well as the actual analysis. Tangible benefits for participants have included staffing and accommodation changes, together with a fresh focus for laboratory management and quality assurance activities. Problems with clinical pathology accreditation are inherently part of its reliance on peer review, but these are thought to be outweighed by the benefits. It seems that the scheme is capable of producing a real improvement in service.