Sparta Community Hospital Laboratory Once Again Earns CAP Accreditation

Hannah Umali, MLS (ASCT); Christy Otten, MBA, BSMLS (AMT); Dr. Akintola-Ogunremi, Pathologist; Angie Verschueren, MLT; Tifanie. Conway, MLT; Jacob Golding, MLS

When it comes to healthcare, some of the most important work happens behind the scenes. At Sparta Community Hospital, our laboratory team plays a critical role in nearly every diagnosis, treatment plan, and healthcare decision—and we’re proud to share that their work has once again been recognized at the highest level.

Following a recent on-site inspection, the Sparta Community Hospital laboratory has successfully earned full accreditation from the College of American Pathologists (CAP).

CAP accreditation is a prestigious, voluntary certification awarded every two years to laboratories that meet the highest standards for quality, safety, and accuracy. Widely regarded as the gold standard in laboratory medicine, this accreditation goes well beyond federal CLIA requirements and involves a rigorous, peer-based inspection by experienced laboratory professionals.

“Most people don’t think about what happens behind the scenes in the lab, but the lab plays a critical role in nearly every healthcare decision made,” said Joann Emge, CEO of Sparta Community Hospital. “This recognition reflects the care, accuracy, and attention our team puts into each test. It’s a great example of Believe in Better—and it’s reassuring for our patients and something our staff and community can be very proud of.”

During the inspection, every aspect of laboratory operations is reviewed—from how tests are performed and documented, to equipment maintenance, quality controls, and staff training. The goal is simple: to ensure patients and providers can trust that test results are accurate, reliable, and safe.

Sparta Community Hospital provides 24/7 laboratory services, supporting inpatient care, emergency services, outpatient testing, and clinic operations throughout our service area. The laboratory operates under the direction of board-certified pathologist Dr. Olaronke Akintola-Ogunremi, in partnership with BJC HealthCare–Christian Hospital, helping ensure high-quality diagnostic services are available close to home.

This continued accreditation reflects our ongoing commitment to Believe in Better—by investing in quality, holding ourselves to the highest standards, and delivering care our community can trust, right here at home.

Click here to learn more about the laboratory at Sparta Community Hospital.

What This Means for You

For our patients and community, CAP accreditation means confidence and peace of mind.

It means the lab results your provider uses to make decisions about your care are:

  • Accurate and reliable

  • Performed using nationally recognized best practices

  • Reviewed under the highest quality and safety standards

  • Handled by a highly trained team right here in your community

Whether it’s routine blood work, emergency testing, or follow-up labs that guide ongoing care, our laboratory team plays a key role in helping providers diagnose conditions, monitor treatment, and make timely decisions.