This service does not have any direct contact with people using health services. However, the service worked in co-operation with other providers and exchanged information with other organisations that provide care and treatment for people. There were robust and effective systems to ensure that information about people was accurate and that test results were properly reported. Staff at the laboratory were clear about their role in the provision of care and treatment for people. One staff member said, "Although we don't see the patients we know they are there and that helps us keep focused."

The provider maintained clean premises and helped to reduce the risk of the spread of infection through the operation of an infection control policy and safe working practices.

Staff were properly trained and qualified for their role and they were supported by an effective competency assessment system that helped to maintain their skils.

The service had effective procedures in place which monitored and improved the quality of the service they provided. We saw that the service completed regular internal audits. The service was also monitored by other external agencies which helped to ensure that standards were maintained.

People's records were held securely and confidentially. The service followed the guidelines set by the Royal College of Pathologists for the handling, storage, retention and disposal of pathology and genetic samples in laboratories.