THE Microbiology Department at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has been praised after collecting a national mark of quality.
The team, based at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, has gained and maintained accreditation to internationally recognised standards following a visit from the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS).
Staff were praised for their professionalism after receiving feedback from the team of independent assessors.
Clare Ellis, Quality Manager for the department, said: “This accreditation is recognised worldwide and gives assurance to patients and service users that we provide a safe and high quality service.
“The inspection process is extremely rigorous. Assessors examine all of their scientific processes along with a thorough review of documentation, the quality management system, staff training and competency, to name but a few areas.
“This is a challenging area to work in and the outcome is testament to the sustained efforts and team work demonstrated by each and every member of staff in Microbiology.”
Mark Wrigley, Directorate Manager, said: “The assessors were very complimentary of the departments and gave very positive feedback.
“They said staff were professional, knowledgeable and competent with excellent documentation backed up by assurance from audits and action plans.
“The directorate is delighted to have been recognised for achieving such an important quality standard.’’
UKAS accreditation of medical laboratories provides assurance for commissioners, service users and patients that tests are being verified by an independent, impartial third party organisation to ensure consistency and quality of results.