Cellular Pathology Services Limited

Updated 6 January 2022

Cellular Pathology Services Limited provides histopathology diagnostic analysis using a range of cellular pathology techniques, such as special stains, frozen section and Mohs technique. The service also provides a cytology management handling service and a specialist second opinion for doctors and patients on their pathology and cancer diagnosis.

This service was established in 2005. The service has had a registered manager in post since it was first registered under the Health and Social Care Act 2008 in July 2011 and is registered to provide the regulated activity:

• Diagnostic and screening procedures.

The laboratory is registered with the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) (9997), which is the internationally recognised accreditation for medical laboratories. The most recent UKAS inspection took place March 2021, which resulted in the provider being accredited.

The service processes around 1500 specimens a month. It is a medium sized independent laboratory with an open office, a closed laboratory, staff changing room and toilets.

The laboratory does not have any direct contact with patients.

The laboratory is open from 9am to 6pm from Monday to Friday. There is a 24 hour on call system in place for more urgent requests.

We carried out an unannounced inspection on 16 November 2021 using our comprehensive inspection methodology.

Updated 6 January 2022

We did not rate this service. This is because CQC does not apply a rating to independent laboratory services.

We looked at four key questions: is the service safe, effective, responsive and well led. We did not inspect caring as the service does not have direct contact or interaction with patients.

• There were enough staff with the right qualifications, skills, training and experience. The provider controlled infection risk well. All areas and equipment within the laboratory were clean and well-maintained. The design, maintenance and use of facilities, premises and equipment kept people safe. Staff completed risk assessments for each test carried out, and for equipment used and the environment. The provider had a system to monitor safety incidents and staff knew how to report incidents and near misses.

• Managers monitored the effectiveness of the service and made sure staff were competent. The provider ensured testing was based on national guidance and evidence-based practice. Staff worked well together and with their partners for the benefit of patients and the service. The service was available seven days a week with urgent cover available out of working hours and during busy times to support the requirement of the service.

• The provider planned and provided a service in a way that met the needs of referring clinicians. Facilities and premises were appropriate for the services being delivered. Referring clinicians could access the service when they needed it and received the laboratory results promptly. There was an annual user feedback survey which referring clinicians and external partners were invited to complete.

• Managers had the skills and abilities to run the service and were visible and approachable. Staff felt respected, supported and valued. Staff were clear about their roles and accountabilities. They used systems to manage performance effectively. Managers ran services well using reliable information systems and supported staff to develop their skills. The information systems were integrated and secure. Managers and staff engaged well with each other and there were positive, collaborative relationships with external partners.

Updated 6 January 2022

We did not rate this service. This is because CQC does not apply a rating to independent laboratory services.

We looked at four key questions: is the service safe, effective, responsive and well led. We did not inspect caring as the service does not have direct contact or interaction with patients.

• There were enough staff with the right qualifications, skills, training and experience. The provider controlled infection risk well. All areas and equipment within the laboratory were clean and well-maintained. The design, maintenance and use of facilities, premises and equipment kept people safe. Staff completed risk assessments for each test carried out, and for equipment used and the environment. The provider had a system to monitor safety incidents and staff knew how to report incidents and near misses.

• Managers monitored the effectiveness of the service and made sure staff were competent. The provider ensured testing was based on national guidance and evidence-based practice. Staff worked well together and with their partners for the benefit of patients and the service. The service was available seven days a week with urgent cover available out of working hours and during busy times to support the requirement of the service.

• The provider planned and provided a service in a way that met the needs of referring clinicians. Facilities and premises were appropriate for the services being delivered. Referring clinicians could access the service when they needed it and received the laboratory results promptly. There was an annual user feedback survey which referring clinicians and external partners were invited to complete.

• Managers had the skills and abilities to run the service and were visible and approachable. Staff felt respected, supported and valued. Staff were clear about their roles and accountabilities. They used systems to manage performance effectively. Managers ran services well using reliable information systems and supported staff to develop their skills. The information systems were integrated and secure. Managers and staff engaged well with each other and there were positive, collaborative relationships with external partners.