News

436th MDG Clinical Laboratory receives accreditation from CAP

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class William Johnson
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  The 436th Medical Group Clinical Laboratory received their accreditation on May 13, 2015 from the Accreditation Committee of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) during an on-site inspection March 12-13, 2015, here.

An inspector from CAP spent two days at the Clinical Laboratory inspecting more than 1,500 checklist items. The accreditation process is designed to ensure the highest standard of care for all laboratory patients.

Master Sgt. Kenneth Kramer, 436th Medical Support Squadron laboratory services NCO in charge, said the accreditation for the lab is vital to the success of virtually all aspects within the 436thMDG.

"This is a two year inspection that we have to have in order to stay open," said Kramer. "If we are not operating, the doctors can't do their job and treat the patients."

The Clinical Laboratory is made up of nine staff members, both military and civilians, who process more than 140,000 specimens a year. The lab conducts more than 100 different types of tests, each one having its own set of quality control tests to ensure accurate results, to aid doctors in their treatment plans for patients.

Maj. Dan Vince Cruz, 436th MDSS Clinical Laboratory flight commander, expressed his satisfaction with the results of the inspection and credits the lab team with their success.

"The quality of the laboratory and the test results we provide are a result of great teamwork," said Vince Cruz. "Each individual on the Lab Team ensures that CAP standards are met. Meeting these 1,500 plus requirements is like second nature to my lab techs. They pride themselves on knowing and working with these standards."

The 436th MDG Clinical Laboratory is one of more than 7,700 CAP-accredited facilities worldwide. The U.S. Government recognizes the CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program as being equal to or more stringent than that of the Government's inspection program.

"The success of the laboratory is a direct reflection of the laboratory's daily commitment and dedication to the mission, great job on the CAP inspection" said Lt. Col. Edward Mazuchowski, director of the Office of Armed Forces Medical Examiners and Laboratory Medical Director.