Distribution Frequency and Stability of External Quality Assurance Samples

Abstract

Abstract The collected data on the appropriateness of the frequency of distribution of selected clinical biochemistry external quality assurance (EQA) samples to assess the optimal EQA frequency for clinical laboratories It also reviewed the current reliability and efficacy of the EQA samples from EQA providers for HbA1c, TSH, T3, T4 and vitamin D. A thorough review of existing studies was undertaken to determine the optimal EQA frequency for biochemistry laboratory and the effect of sample stability on EQA frequency. The study results indicated there should be at least 4-6 rounds of EQA schemes per year for HbA1c, TSH, T3, T4 and vitamin D. According to the literature review, there is no systematic structure determine the best level of EQA per year or even the number of samples used within each distribution. This study has shown that there should be at least four to six rounds of EQA per year, and these should include different analytes. However, individual laboratories need to determine their own EQA frequency based on factors such as the error rate, financial resources and sample stability. The quality manager needs to assess and decide the number of EQA schemes to be performed annually.