[Histonet] Re: Block and Slide Retention

[Joelle Weaver]

Good point about lab closings and block/slide archives Dr. Richmond. I seem to remember a requirement for a policy for what a lab will do with their archives in the event of closing in the CAP checklist. Having a policy of course, is only part of the resolution.


Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC

        
  

 
> Date: Sat, 6 Dec 2014 17:46:11 -0500
> From: rsrichmond <@t> gmail.com
> To: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
> Subject: [Histonet] Re: Block and Slide Retention
> 
> Blake Taylor, Surgical Pathology Supervisor, Lexington Medical Center in SC
> asks:
> 
> >>We currently keep our blocks and slides indefinitely but would like to
> revise our retention policy. I know CAP has a minimum of 10 years, Just
> wanted some feedback on what others thoughts on this are.  We are thinking
> maybe 15-18 years???<<
> 
> I think that with the rapid advent of molecular and genetic studies that
> can be done on paraffin embedded tissue, that the 10 year minimum is going
> to need to be extended, though I haven't heard of any proposals. A
> non-trivial problem, because of the temperature control needed for storing
> paraffin blocks.
> 
> A related problem: what should be done with archived blocks when a lab
> closes, as so many will in the next few years?
> 
> Bob Richmond
> Samurai Pathologist
> Maryville TN
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