Archived: Bath Institute for Rheumatic Diseases Also known as BIRD BATH

We found the service had clear contractual arrangements with clients in relation to services provided, terms and conditions, and fees for work undertaken.

The service cooperated with other providers to provide clear information about diagnostic services and test results.

The equipment used in the laboratory was certificated by Clinical Pathology Accreditation (UK) Limited. Accreditation had been achieved in 2001, and was reviewed every four years. The most recent full accreditation had been received in March 2012. We looked at a sample of equipment servicing and maintenance and found all to be in order.

We found staff were trained and appraised by their supervisors to judge if they were competent to carry out their roles. We talked with staff about training and their continuing professional development and they confirmed they were supported to work competently and safely.

There was a system in place to assess and monitor the quality of the service. Governance at the organisation was led by a Council of Management, which met six times per year. Staff carried out routine audits of records and equipment, undertook risk assessments, and reported upon health and safety.