The College of American Pathologists, which works to ensure the safety and quality of medical laboratories across the nation, has accredited the laboratory at Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center's stand-alone emergency department in Chattooga County.

The accreditation is good for 2 years.

For 75 years, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) has served patients, pathologists and the public by fostering and advocating excellence in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide.

“This is great news for people in our service area," said Casey Matoy, administrative director for Laboratory Services at Atrium Health Floyd. “CAP accreditation means our patients can rest assured we can provide them with the highest quality service available that means important clinical and safety guidelines."

During the review process, CAP inspectors examine laboratory records and quality control procedures. Representatives review laboratory staff qualifications, equipment and safety procedures.

The $18.4 million emergency department, which opened in October 2023, treated more than 10,000 patients by early May.

The emergency department serves residents in Chattooga County and portions of Walker County and northeast Alabama. The facility features six treatment rooms, an onsite laboratory and imaging services, including X-ray and a computed tomography (CT) scanner.