NHS pathology quality assurance review launched

The government has announced a new review scrutinising NHS arrangements for the oversight and safeguards of laboratory testing.

National clinical director for pathology Dr Ian Barnes will lead the review of quality assurance arrangements for NHS pathology services, which will bring together experts in the field to discuss how quality assurance systems can be strengthened.

Pathology tests are frequently needed to diagnose and establish the best way to treat chronic or life-threatening conditions among NHS patients, as well as monitoring treatment progress, with around two million tests carried out every day.

Though serious safety incidents are rare, concerns were raised over the pathology testing of breast cancers at Sherwood Forest NHS Foundation Trust in October 2012, after flaws in the system led to a small number of women was disadvantaged.

Professor Sir Bruce Keogh said: "The NHS has a strong reputation for providing high-grade laboratory tests. With advances in technology and practice, I want to ensure that quality remains at the forefront.”

This week, it was also announced that new investments into UK mental health services are set to increase the prevalence of psychological talking therapies, rather than antidepressive medication.