University Health Services recognized for quality laboratory services

University of Hawaiʻi
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Posted: Aug 15, 2006

University Health Services has received national commendation for its medical laboratory services. The lab has met all criteria for accreditation by COLA — the Certification Organization for Laboratory Accreditation. Accredited status is granted only to laboratories that apply rigid standards of quality in day-to-day operations, demonstrate continued accuracy in the performance of proficiency testing, and pass a rigorous on-site lab survey.

In addition to continued accreditation, the Health Services lab has received the Laboratory Excellence Award for 2006-2007. This is COLA‘s highest commendation, for "outstanding performance in quality patient testing and overall exemplary application of the principles of laboratory practices."

University Health Services was established at the Manoa campus in 1932. It is staffed by physicians, nurse clinicians, nurses, and other support professionals. A wide range of medical services and programs are offered — including a general medical clinic, a women's health clinic, a sports medicine program, and nutrition, dermatology, pharmacy and clinical laboratory services. Health Services also provides campus-wide health promotion programs and student training, employment and volunteer opportunities.

The primary service population is the students of UH Manoa, although the clinic is open to UHM faculty and staff as well as students from other campuses.

COLA is the entity that assures compliance with standards established in the federal Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) of 1988.