Monument Health labs recognized for quality

SPEARFISH, S.D. (Nov. 12, 2019) — Laboratories at Monument Health Lead-Deadwood Hospital, Monument Health Medical Clinic on Flormann Street in Rapid City and Monument Health Orthopedic & Specialty Hospital in Rapid City were recently notified that they meet all criteria for accreditation by COLA, a national health care accreditation organization.

Accredited laboratories 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 laboratory survey. This COLA accreditation process reflects Monument Health’s dedication and long-term commitment to meeting standards that demonstrate a higher level of performance and patient care, COLA officials said.

Accreditation through COLA is a voluntary program aimed at elevating the quality of laboratory services by improving clinical outcomes and improving processes for the patients and communities served. External reviewers evaluate each laboratory’s compliance and compare it with pre-established performance standards. Laboratories that achieve accreditations are better able to stimulate quality improvement, more easily identify strengths and weaknesses and improve management processes.

COLA is a nonprofit, physician-directed organization promoting quality and excellence in medicine and patient care through programs of voluntary education, achievement and accreditation. In 1993, COLA was granted status by CMS to provide laboratory accreditation. Laboratories of all types and sizes are evaluated and mentored to produce accurate test results and meet CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) regulations. COLA is sponsored by the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Medical Association, the American Society of Internal Medicine, and the American College of Physicians.

About Monument Health
Headquartered in Rapid City, S.D., Monument Health is a community-based health care system with a mission to make a difference, every day. Monument Health offers care in 33 medical specialties and serves 20 communities across western South Dakota and in eastern Wyoming. With over 4,500 physicians and caregivers, Monument Health is comprised of 5 hospitals, 8 specialty and surgical centers and more than 40 medical clinics and health care service centers.

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CONTACT:
Dan Daly
Communications Specialist
Strategic Marketing and Communications
Monument Health
605-755-9178
ddaly@monument.health