Keesler's genetics lab receives accreditation

Published Jan. 23, 2013
By Steve Pivnick
81st Medical Group Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Keesler's Air Force Medical Genetics Laboratory has received accreditation from the College of American Pathologists.

The CAP officially notified the genetics laboratory staff of the accreditation in December following an on-site inspection conducted in November.

Keesler operates the only genetics center -- combined comprehensive genetics clinic and laboratory -- in the Department of Defense.

The CAP advised facility medical director Dr. David Rigdon of the national recognition and congratulated the staff for the excellence of services they provide. The Keesler genetics laboratory, an element of the 81st Medical Operations Squadron, is one of more than 7,000 CAP-accredited facilities worldwide.

Dr. Rigdon said, "I am extremely proud of our genetics team. It is extremely rare for zero deficiencies to be found during an intensive on-site CAP accreditation inspection. We know we provide superior service, but it is nice to be recognized by other professionals, especially when they are of such high caliber as was this group of inspectors."

Capt. Linda Beeman, genetics flight commander, added, "I am very proud to lead a team of genetics professionals dedicated to their work and each other. The excellent score and their daily hard work prove that to be true."

The CAP news release announcing the achievement noted, "During the CAP accreditation process, designed to ensure the highest standard of care for all laboratory patients, inspectors examine the laboratory's records and quality control of procedures for the preceding two years. CAP inspectors also examine laboratory staff qualifications, equipment, facilities, safety program and records as well as overall management."

Keesler’s genetics lab receives accreditation