• Hospital
  • Independent hospital

Cellular Pathology Services Limited

Unit 12 Orbital 25 Business Park, Dwight Road Tolpits Lane, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 9DA (01923) 233299

Provided and run by:
Cellular Pathology Services Limited

All Inspections

16 November 2021

During a routine inspection

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.

• There were enough staff with the right qualifications, skills, training and experience. The provider 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. The provider had a system to monitor 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 provider ensured testing was 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 seven days a week with urgent cover available out of working hours and during busy times to support the requirement of the service.

• The provider planned and provided a service in a way that met the needs of referring clinicians. 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.

• Managers 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. They used systems to manage performance effectively. Managers ran services well using reliable information systems and supported staff to develop their skills. The information systems were integrated and secure. Managers and staff engaged well with each other and there were positive, collaborative relationships with external partners.

23 January 2014

During a routine inspection

Cellular Pathology Services Limited provide Histopathology and Cytopathology services to clinical and hospital clients. There is no direct access with patients.

We found appropriate systems in place to ensure people's consent for care and treatment was sought.

We identified that there were appropriate systems in place to ensure the cleanliness of the environment and for the prevention of infection.

Appropriate equipment had been provided and fully maintained to ensure that work was carried out safely.

Regular quality audits were undertaken including an annual customer questionnaire and internal and external quality audits.

We found that appropriate records were being maintained, stored and disposed of in line with the Data Protection Act 1998 principles.

6 March 2013

During a routine inspection

Cellular Pathology Services Limited provide Histopathology and Cytopathology services to clinical and hospital clients. The laboratory does not have direct contact with patients.

We identified that there were appropriate systems in place for monitoring and managing the cleanliness of the service and preventing infection.

The service is operated from secure well maintained premises and there were systems in place that ensured equipment and safety systems had been regularly reviewed and serviced.

We identified that staff received the training and support they needed to maintain their skills and work effectively.

We noted that the provider had taken a robust approach in relation to monitoring the quality and safety of the service.