CAP Process Update on Virtual Inspections

Communication Date: August 27, 2021
NOTE: The information below was current at the time of communication. Subsequent CAP changes, if applicable, are not reflected in this eAlert.

After discussions with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the CAP will no longer need to routinely conduct a follow-up on-site inspection if a virtual inspection was performed during the public health emergency. A successful virtual inspection is sufficient to meet the requirements for accreditation for laboratories that are currently CAP accredited.

An on-site inspection component is still required if:

• Your laboratory had its first (initial) CAP inspection during the public health emergency. The CAP will schedule a follow-up on-site inspection when conditions are safe for all parties.
  
• Your laboratory is accredited with the requirement of an on-site non-routine inspection. The non-routine inspection will be performed at the time specified.
• The CAP receives a complaint that warrants an on-site inspection. This will be performed as an unannounced non-routine inspection.

Please contact us if you have questions at accred@cap.org.