What is a CLIA lab?

A CLIA lab is a laboratory that is certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) of 1988, a federal law in the United States. CLIA labs are authorized to perform testing on human specimens to diagnose, prevent, or treat diseases. These labs must meet specific quality standards for personnel qualifications, equipment, record keeping, and testing procedures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of results. CLIA certification is required for most laboratories that test patient samples, whether in hospitals, clinics, or independent facilities.