The overviewAbout this accreditation
ISO 15189 accreditation for medical laboratories is not just a badge of honor; it's a testament to a facility's commitment to excellence, accuracy, and patient safety. ISCB, a renowned provider of accreditation body, sheds light on the myriad benefits of achieving ISO 15189 accreditation.
Programme eligibilityIs this programme suitable?
Applies to medical laboratories seeking accreditation for defined examinations and to point-of-care testing activities under the laboratory's governance where included.
- Define the requested scope by discipline, examination, specimen, method or platform and location.
- Control pre-examination, examination and post-examination processes, including patient preparation, collection, transport, acceptance, critical results and report authorization.
- Verify or validate examination procedures and demonstrate measurement uncertainty or other appropriate evaluation of result quality where applicable.
Why accreditation matters
Benefits for your organisation
01Enhanced Quality Management
ISO 15189 provides a framework for establishing and maintaining a robust quality management system tailored to the unique needs of medical laboratories. By adhering to this standard, laboratories can optimize their processes, minimize errors, and consistently deliver accurate and reliable results.
02Global Recognition and Credibility
ISO 15189 accreditation is recognized internationally, instilling confidence in the competence and reliability of accredited laboratories. This global recognition not only enhances the laboratory's reputation but also facilitates acceptance of test results across borders, fostering collaboration and trust in healthcare systems worldwide.
03Improved Patient Care and Safety
Accredited laboratories prioritize patient safety and satisfaction by adhering to stringent quality standards. ISO 15189 accreditation ensures that laboratory processes are meticulously controlled, resulting in accurate diagnoses, timely treatment decisions, and ultimately, improved patient outcomes.
04Regulatory Compliance
Compliance with ISO 15189 demonstrates a laboratory's commitment to meeting regulatory requirements and industry best practices. Accredited laboratories are better positioned to navigate regulatory inspections, audits, and assessments, minimizing the risk of non-compliance and associated penalties.
05Continuous Improvement Culture
ISO 15189 encourages a culture of continuous improvement within medical laboratories. By regularly evaluating processes, identifying areas for enhancement, and implementing corrective actions, accredited laboratories can drive ongoing performance improvements and stay at the forefront of medical technology and innovation.
06Competitive Advantage
ISO 15189 accreditation sets accredited laboratories apart from their competitors, signaling a commitment to quality, reliability, and patient-centered care. Accredited laboratories often attract more referrals, partnerships, and collaborations, ultimately strengthening their position in the healthcare marketplace.
07Staff Engagement and Development
Accreditation fosters a sense of pride and ownership among laboratory staff, who play a crucial role in maintaining compliance and driving quality improvement initiatives. Training and development opportunities associated with ISO 15189 accreditation enable staff to enhance their skills, knowledge, and expertise, further contributing to the laboratory's success.
Transparent assessment pathwayHow accreditation works
1Enquiry
2Application
3Scope review
4Document review
5Assessment
6Corrective action
7Decision
8Surveillance
Application evidenceDocuments to prepare
Legal identity, governance and medical leadership responsibilities
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Scope schedule, examination directory and referral arrangements
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Personnel qualifications, competence and authorization records
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Method verification/validation, uncertainty and reference-interval evidence
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
IQC and EQA performance with follow-up actions
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Sample pathway, critical-result and information-system controls
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Internal audit, management review, risk and improvement records
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Representative authorized reports and user communications
Provide current, approved evidence relevant to the activities and locations in your proposed scope. ISCB may request additional records after scope review.
Clear fee basisWhat shapes the quotation
ScopeTechnical breadth
Activities, schemes, methods and technical sectors included.
OrganisationSites and people
Locations, personnel, operating complexity and sampling needs.
AssessmentReview and witnessing
Document review, assessment days, witnessing and specialist expertise.
Request a formal quotation ↗Frequently asked questionsISO 15189 accreditation questions
What is ISO 15189 accreditation?
It is an independent assessment of whether an organisation is competent and operates consistently and impartially for the activities listed in its requested scope.
What are the accreditation requirements?
The applicable standard, ISCB programme requirements and relevant mandatory or sector documents define the criteria. Applicants must provide objective evidence covering governance, competence, methods, records, internal audit and management review.
How much does accreditation cost?
Accreditation cost depends on the requested scope, technical complexity, locations, personnel, assessment duration and witnessing needs. ISCB provides a formal quotation after scope review.
How do I get accredited?
Confirm the appropriate programme, review the requirements, complete the readiness check, request a quotation and submit an application. Assessment findings must be resolved before an independent accreditation decision.
Controlled programme documentISO 15189 applicant requirements
Read the ISCB requirements online or download the controlled PDF guide covering eligibility, impartiality, competence, operating evidence, assessment and continued accreditation.
Take the next stepFind, price and apply
Use guided tools to confirm the likely route, request a scope-based quotation and apply when prepared.