The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has granted COLA an extension of its deeming authority for an additional six years under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA 88).
Renewal of deeming authority for six years is the maximum period an accrediting organization can achieve before the next renewal cycle. COLA has been approved to accredit various CLIA-regulated specialties and subspecialties, encompassing microbiology (bacteriology, mycobacteriology, mycology, parasitology, and virology); diagnostic immunology (syphilis serology and general immunology); chemistry (routine chemistry, urinalysis, endocrinology, and toxicology); hematology (routine hematology); immunohematology (ABO group and Rh group, antibody detection, antibody identification, and compatibility testing); and pathology (histopathology, oral pathology, and cytology).
“The successful renewal of our deeming authority underscores COLA’s steadfast commitment to the laboratory industry. Undertaking the process for reapproval is no small feat, and we view this accomplishment as a testament to our dedication to maintaining high standards,” says Nancy Stratton, CEO of COLA.
COLA’s accreditation extends to clinical laboratories in diverse settings, including hospitals, physician offices, rural and community clinics, student centers, ambulatory surgery centers, health maintenance organizations, healthcare systems, federally qualified health centers, nursing facilities, and independent laboratories, according to the organization.
Further reading: Addressing the Workforce Shortage Is the Mission of COLA-Initiated Alliance
