API, ASCP, JCAHO Launch Lab Advantage

News Releases

API, ASCP, Joint Commission Launch Lab Advantage

Contact:
Stacey McCalpin at 800-333-0958 (API)
Robin Stombler at 202-347-4450 (ASCP)
Ken Powers at 630-792-5175 (Joint Commission)

Washington, DC – The American Proficiency Institute (API), American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), and the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations announce the launch of Lab Advantage^TM a ground-breaking collaboration to offer a package of quality improvement services customized for the clinical laboratory field.

Beginning March 31, 2003, laboratories will be able to access an integrated menu of services, including web-based API proficiency testing that meets Joint Commission accreditation requirements, and cutting-edge ASCP technological and scientific educational programs that are uniquely designed for customer needs.

Lab Advantage provides an opportunity for one-stop shopping, and the efficiency gained by the coordination, integration and customization of laboratory quality improvement services. Further benefits include new educational programs, faster information exchange, and pathologist expertise on the survey team.

"Joint Commission accreditation is widely recognized as a symbol of quality that reflects a laboratory's commitment to meeting certain performance standards,." said Charles Mowll, Joint Commission Executive Vice President, Business Development, Government and External Relations. "Lab Advantage" combines complimentary quality improvement services that will assist clinical laboratories in improving the safety and quality of services they provide. Lab Advantage will bring enhanced survey knowledge in a way that will benefit patient care," he said.

"API is a widely recognized leader in providing customized, web-based proficiency testing services to laboratories," remarked Daniel Edson, API President. "By bringing this technology to Lab AdvantageTM , laboratories will realize efficiencies and cost savings."

"ASCP will bring the strength of its educational programs to Lab Advantage ," explained E. Eugene Baillie, MD, FASCP, ASCP President. "We will provide educational programs that focus on the needs of accredited laboratories."

In November, API, ASCP, and Joint Commission informed the public of our intent to collaborate on a portfolio of accreditation, proficiency testing and educational products that would serve the laboratory community.

Joint Commission, ASCP, and API have integrated the strengths of each organization in creating a dynamic, new synergy for the purpose of improving the quality and safety of health care. Together, the three organizations can accomplish more toward this goal than can any organization working alone.

For more information about Lab Advantage, call Stacey McCalpin at 1-800-333-0958.