The College of American Pathologists (CAP) is considered the gold standard in lab testing quality regulation in the United States. They use strict guidelines and standards to ensure that CAP-accredited labs maintain the accuracy of test results, ensure accurate patient diagnosis, meet or exceed standards for patient care and safety, stay up-to-date with changes in laboratory medicine and technological best practices, and work with laboratory staff to offer ongoing development and training. Their annual checklists for accreditation are compiled with input from over 500 certified pathologists to achieve the highest quality lab operations and laboratory inspections occur bi-annually to ensure compliance.