SPARTA, IL — Sparta Community Hospital has announced that its laboratory team has once again earned full accreditation from the College of American Pathologists (CAP) following a recent on-site inspection.
In the photo, from left, are: Hannah Umali, Lab Assistant; Christy Otten, Lab Manager; Dr. Olaronke Akintola-Ogunremi; Angie Verschueren; Lab Tech; Tifani Conway, Lead Tech Lead; and Jacob Golding, Lab Tech. Not in the photo are: Misti Badger, Lab Tech; Jenifer Clark, Lab Tech; Joshua Hogan, Lead Tech Lead; Lexi Johnson, Lab Assistant; Haley Jolley, Lab Assistant; Sarah Kassing, Lab Tech; Treasure Leggans, Lab Assistant; Robin McFall, Lab Tech; Madi Rathert, Lab Assistant; Breanna Rodriguez, Lab Assistant; Amelia Shemonic, Lab Tech; and Kyndl McDonough, Lab Assistant
CAP accreditation is a prestigious, two-year certification that recognizes laboratories for meeting the highest standards of quality, safety, and accuracy in testing. Widely regarded as the gold standard in laboratory medicine, CAP accreditation goes beyond federal CLIA requirements through a rigorous, peer-based inspection process.
“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 is reassuring for our patients and something our staff and community can be very proud of.”
This voluntary certification goes beyond federal requirements and involves a thorough, on-site review of everything from how tests are performed to how equipment is maintained and staff are trained. Inspections are conducted by experienced laboratory professionals to ensure results patients and providers rely on are accurate, reliable, and safe.
Sparta Community Hospital provides 24/7 laboratory services, supporting inpatient care, emergency services, outpatient testing, and clinic operations throughout the community. The laboratory operates under the direction of board-certified pathologist, Dr. Olaronke Akintola-Ogunremi with BJC Health Care-Christian Hospital, ensuring high-quality diagnostic services.
This continued accreditation reflects Sparta Community Hospital’s ongoing commitment to Believe in Better—delivering safe, reliable, and high-quality care for the patients and communities served.