External Quality Assessment (EQA): The Impact of Distribution Frequency on Laboratory Performance; Is Laboratory Performance and Efficiency Affected?

Abstract

This study sought to examine the relationship between the frequency of receiving and processing Quality Control samples in participation with External Quality Assessment (EQA) schemes and laboratory performance and efficiency. The study also examines the stability and viability of EQA samples during the preparation and storage process as well as during transportation to the participating laboratories. Ensuring optimum stability and viability of EQA samples provides reassurance that the results achieved at the participating laboratory are correct and thus give confidence in the accuracy of subsequent laboratory results for patient samples.