Owensboro Health Laboratory, Transfusion Services Earn Zero-Deficiency on State, Federal Surveys

A recent survey by state inspectors of the Owensboro Health Regional Hospital Laboratory and hospital transfusion services found no deficiencies, earning top marks for all departments and personnel involved.

The inspection, conducted by the Kentucky Office of the Inspector General, is also used by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. It certifies that safety processes and appropriate protocols are being used at all times, from receipt of blood from the Western Kentucky Regional Blood Center, to administration to patients.

That means that all personnel, including nurses, physicians and other caregivers associated with the process, must follow the rules perfectly to earn a zero-deficiency score, said Tricia Hamilton, interim director of the laboratory. The lab is also inspected at regular intervals by other regulatory agencies, including The Joint Commission, the Food and Drug Administration and the American Association of Blood Banks.

“I'm very proud of my team,” Hamilton said. “It takes teamwork and we're here for the patient. The ultimate goal is for patients to receive excellent, quality care.”

-Rachael Frey, Owensboro Health Marketing & Public Relations