Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1988 was developed for all of the following reasons EXCEPT:

1. Ensure accuracy in laboratory testing

2. Regulate laboratory quality standards

3. To increase the waiting time for specimen results

4. Improve patient care and safety

The correct answer is: To increase the waiting time for specimen results

The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1988 aimed to enhance the accuracy and reliability of laboratory testing by establishing stringent quality standards to ensure that laboratories perform tests effectively. This regulation was vital for maintaining accurate results, which directly impacts patient care and safety. By ensuring that laboratories meet specific quality standards, the Act contributes to better health outcomes for patients. In contrast, one of the goals of the Act was not to increase waiting times for specimen results. In fact, the legislation focused on improving the efficiency and reliability of laboratory processes, which often includes efforts to reduce turnaround times for test results. Thus, the notion of extending waiting times does not align with the purposes of the Act as it contradicts the intention to enhance patient care and streamline healthcare services.