Which type of accrediting agencies may inspect laboratories to determine CLIA '88 compliance?

• A. Public
• B. Local
• C. Private
• D. State

Answer: (C)

Under CLIA, a laboratory’s compliance can be verified by CMS surveyors or by CMS-approved accreditation organizations. These accrediting agencies are private nonprofit organizations that specialize in laboratory quality and performance standards. They conduct on-site surveys to determine whether labs meet CLIA '88 requirements, and their accreditation can fulfill CLIA inspection requirements in place of a direct CMS inspection. That’s why private is the best choice—these private accrediting bodies (such as CAP, The Joint Commission, COLA) are the recognized inspectors for CLIA compliance. Public, local, or state agencies typically handle other regulatory or licensure roles, while CLIA inspections are conducted by CMS or these CMS-approved private organizations.