What are Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments?

The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) are federal regulatory standards that apply to all clinical laboratory testing performed on humans in the United States. These regulations establish quality standards to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and timeliness of patient test results regardless of where the test is performed.

Why are CLIA regulations important?

• Quality assurance: Ensures laboratories meet minimum quality standards for testing.
• Patient protection: Prevents harm from inaccurate or unreliable test results.
• Consistency: Standardizes laboratory practices across different settings and locations.

Key aspects of CLIA regulations

• Laboratory certification requirements based on complexity of testing performed.
• Personnel qualifications and training standards.
• Quality control and proficiency testing requirements.

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help you verify that laboratories processing your tests are CLIA-certified and appropriate for the type of testing you need. They can assist with understanding complex laboratory results, coordinating repeat testing if results appear questionable, and ensuring that your healthcare providers receive and properly interpret your test results for appropriate treatment decisions.