The College of American Pathologists (CAP) has awarded full, two-year accreditation to Trinity Hospital’s Main Laboratory, according to a press release. The approval follows an onsite survey by CAP inspectors.

CAP is recognized as the gold standard in lab accreditation, with requirements that meet or exceed the U.S. government’s own lab certification program. Laboratory Services Administrative Director Laura Lara says laboratories seek CAP approval on a voluntary basis as a means of enhancing the quality of laboratory testing.

“We believe that submitting ourselves to the CAP process demonstrates our willingness to undergo a more rigorous review and shows our commitment to provide a high level of service,” Lara said in the press release. “I’m very proud of our medical staff and laboratory professionals. This shows they are committed to serve patients with the best possible care.”

During the accreditation process, CAP inspectors examine the laboratory’s records and quality control procedures for the preceding two years. CAP inspectors also examine laboratory staff qualifications, equipment, facilities, safety program and records, and overall management.

The Main Laboratory at Trinity Hospital performs around 1 million tests yearly, according to Lara. As a CAP-accredited laboratory, Trinity joins a group of 8,000 laboratories worldwide that have met CAP’s high standards of excellence.