Advance Histopathology Laboratory Limited

Updated 29 November 2021

Advance Histopathology Laboratory Ltd (AHLab) provides histopathology diagnostic analysis utilising a range of cellular pathology techniques such as special stains, frozen section and electron microscopy. 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 2016. The service has had a registered manager in post since 2016 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 June 2021, which resulted in the provider being requested to take one action, this had been completed.

The service processes around 18 samples per day and 390 cases per month. For the period of September 2020 to September 2021, the number of specimen samples processed by the service was 5,077. It is a small independent laboratory with an open office, a closed office, staff changing room and toilets.

The laboratory does not have any direct contact with patients.

The laboratory is open from 9am to 9pm from Monday to Friday and from 10am to 1pm on Saturdays. There is a 24 hour on call system in place for more urgent requests.

We carried out an unannounced inspection on 05 October 2021 using our comprehensive inspection methodology.

Updated 29 November 2021

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.

• The service had enough staff with the right qualifications, skills, training and experience. Staff had training on how to recognise and report abuse and they knew how to apply it. The service-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. There was a system to report 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 service provided services 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 six days a week with urgent cover available out of working hours and during busy times to support the requirement of the service.
• The laboratory planned and provided a service in a way that met the needs of referring clinicians using the service. 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.
• Leaders 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. Leaders and teams used systems to manage performance effectively. Leaders ran services well using reliable information systems and supported staff to develop their skills. The information systems were integrated and secure. Leaders and staff engaged well with colleagues and there were positive, collaborative relationships with external partners.

However:

• At the time of inspection, the safeguarding lead for the service had not completed the required level of training for this role.

Updated 29 November 2021

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