TUPELO, Mississippi—The Accreditation Committee of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) has awarded accreditation to North Mississippi Medical Center’s Pathology Department based on results of a recent on-site inspection as part of the CAP’s Accreditation Programs. In addition to the NMMC-Tupelo Pathology Department, this accreditation also includes the NMMC Women’s Hospital Laboratory and the Respiratory Therapy Department at both facilities.

“It’s certainly welcomed and wonderful news, to have the hard work and daily commitment of NMMC’s team recognized,” said Sherry Okun, M.D., MBA, medical director of NMMC’s Pathology Department. “This is an accomplishment to be proud of and exemplifies the laboratory and institution’s dedication to provide excellent patient care and continuously strive to improve the health of the people of our region.” NMMC-Tupelo is one of more than 8,000 CAP-accredited facilities worldwide.

“This accreditation is a direct result of the diligence that all members of our team put forth every day as they strive to provide quality care to our patients and their families,” added Toni Presley, MHSA, MT(ASCP), the department’s administrative director. The U.S. federal government recognizes the CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program as being equal to or more stringent than the government’s own inspection program.

Designed to ensure the highest standard of care for all laboratory patients, the accreditation process examines the laboratory’s records and quality control of procedures for the preceding two years. CAP inspectors also examine laboratory staff qualifications, equipment, facilities, safety program and record, and overall management.

The College of American Pathologists is the world’s largest organization of board-certified pathologists and leading provider of laboratory accreditation and proficiency testing programs. For more information about NMMC’s Pathology Department, visit www.nmhs.net/lab.