Healthcare technology company Babson Diagnostics announced its new, highly automated microsample laboratory has been awarded accreditation by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) based on the results of a recent on-site inspection, according to the company.

The global recognition is a critical step on Babson’s path to commercially launch the BetterWay blood testing service at retail pharmacies in Texas this year, Babson Diagnostics says. BetterWay is designed to make blood testing easier and more accessible by using only a pea-sized amount of blood collected from a fingertip to produce medically accurate results clinicians and patients can trust.

Babson will analyze the microsamples at its clinical lab, which opened in its new corporate headquarters last year. This was the first time the new lab had undergone the CAP review process. Babson’s previous lab in Austin received CAP accreditation in 2020 and 2022.

“We thank the Accreditation Committee of the College of American Pathologists for its thorough review,” says James Jacobson, Babson’s vice president of clinical affairs. “Receiving accreditation reflects our commitment to a rigorous scientific evaluation of our innovative analysis technologies before commercialization of BetterWay.”

Getting CAP Accreditation

During the CAP accreditation process, designed to ensure the highest standard of care for all laboratory patients, inspectors examine the laboratory’s records and quality control procedures. CAP inspectors also examine laboratory staff qualifications, equipment, facilities, safety program and record, and overall management. These reviews help verify activities and reflect the most recent best practices.

Babson’s compliance means the company is meeting the highest standards of quality and patient safety in its laboratory practices.

The U.S. federal government recognizes the CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program, begun in the early 1960s, as being equal to or more stringent than the government’s own inspection program.

“On our journey to make routine blood testing easier, more accessible, and less invasive, we are innovating with integrity,” says David Stein, Babson’s chief executive officer. “Achieving accreditation is another step in our plan to show that BetterWay meets high scientific standards and produces quality diagnostic results that patients and clinicians can rely on.”

Further reading: DiaCarta Receives CAP Accreditation