NORTHFIELD, Ill. (June 4, 2025) –The College of American Pathologists (CAP) and The Joint Commission (TJC) have reached an agreement permitting advance notification of laboratory inspections at TJC-accredited hospitals.
The CAP had requested this change to a cooperative agreement between the CAP and TJC, which had prohibited advance notification of laboratory inspections. On May 30, TJC informed the CAP that the agreement could be amended in alignment with what the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) allows under CLIA.
“This step supports smoother inspections, helps laboratories stay focused on quality, and ultimately benefits patient care,” said CAP President Donald S. Karcher, MD, FCAP. “Advance notice gives laboratories the time they need to coordinate staffing and ensure a smooth inspection process while maintaining inspection integrity.”
Under the revised agreement, laboratories may receive advance notification of scheduled inspections up to 14 calendar days in advance. Exceptions included complaints and follow-up inspections due to previously identified noncompliance, which will remain unannounced.
The CAP is pleased to offer this important change to support its laboratory quality partners. Additional details about implementation will be shared in the coming weeks.
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About the College of American Pathologists
As the world’s largest organization of board-certified pathologists and leading provider of laboratory accreditation and proficiency testing programs, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) serves patients, pathologists, and the public by fostering and advocating excellence in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide. For more information, visit the CAP Newsroom, CAP.org and yourpathologist.org to watch pathologists at work and see the stories of the patients who trust them with their care.