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- CAP Obtains CMS Reapproval as Accreditation Organization
The CAP earned the CMS reapproval as an accreditation organization for clinical laboratories. As reported in the Federal Register, the CMS determined the CAP, in its application for reapproval, met or exceeded the applicable Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) requirements.
The CMS regulates all laboratory testing, except research, performed on humans in the US through CLIA. It began granting deeming authority to accrediting organizations in 1994, with the CAP consistently winning renewals for six years, the maximum allowable period under federal regulation.
Laboratories participating in CAP accreditation are based in a variety of settings including large university medical centers, physician offices, and COVID-19 testing sites. The accreditation program enables laboratories to:
- Meet CLIA regulatory requirements (specific to laboratories subject to U.S. regulations);
- Ensure compliance through the guidance of the most comprehensive scientifically endorsed laboratory standards; and
- Maintain accuracy of test results and ensure accurate patient diagnosis.
The CAP currently accredits nearly 8,000 laboratories worldwide.