The COLA award signifies the laboratory's commitment to performing quality patient testing and superior overall laboratory practices. Richardson Medical Center Laboratory received a perfect laboratory inspection (no deficiencies) at the end of January. In addition, award recipients must have demonstrated successful proficiency testing for the prior three testing events and have no substantiated complaints against the laboratory.

RMC Lab staff is composed of seven Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS) and nine Phlebotomists. Medical Laboratory Scientists (known formerly as Med Techs) hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Laboratory Science, and sit for a state board exam for licensure. They are licensed through the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. The scope of a Medical Laboratory Scientist is to perform complex testing on body fluids to help monitor patient wellness and disease processes. They also maintain upkeep and quality control measures on moderately-complex analyzers in order to prove accuracy of patient results. The laboratory department works under the direction of a pathologist. RMC Phlebotomists have completed a phlebotomy course and proper training to aid in the pre-analytical process of patient identification, specimen collection, and specimen preparation. They work closely with Medical Laboratory Scientists to make sure quality of care is achieved and maintained.

Richardson Medical Center prides itself in continuing to strive for "excellent care with a personal touch, close to home."