ICAP (College of American Pathologists) is a peer-based inspection process that combines regulatory and educational standards that include over 3,000 requirements. CAP teams use the various checklists during inspections as a guide to assess a lab's management and operation. Its inspectors are also practicing laboratory professionals. The program is specifically designed to go above and beyond regulatory compliance to achieve the highest standards possible. Each year, CAP reviews and updates the checklists. This helps maintain their strict standards while including new advancement in technology and laboratory management.
CAP inspections are overwhelming and stressful for both the inspectors and laboratory being inspected. Most often times; the inspectors are given guidelines to follow to ensure there is structure and thoroughness during the inspection.
The following presentation will give an inside view of the guidelines the inspectors use as it pertains to Histopathology and the most common format you will likely encounter. It is also going to establish guiding principles used by inspectors; in particular the “ROAD” strategy (what to Read, Observe, Ask, and Discover). Using the ROAD methodology, we will cover the preanalytical, analytical, and post analytical areas of Pathology including proficiency testing, quality management, specimen collection & handling, reporting, method performance, instrument/equipment and safety. This presentation will not only help you prepare for your inspection but may peak your interest in becoming a CAP inspector.