Introducing Comprehensive Educational Guides on Updated CLIA Proficiency Testing Regulations
Introducing Comprehensive Educational Guides on Updated CLIA Proficiency Testing Regulations
We are thrilled to present two educational guides that delve into the newly updated minimum performance specifications for Proficiency Testing by CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments). These regulations, set to be implemented by 2024, aim to enhance the accuracy and reliability of test results in clinical laboratories. Here, we introduce these invaluable resources designed to assist laboratories in navigating the evolving landscape of proficiency testing.
1. Proficiency Testing Regulations Related to Analytes and Acceptable Performance – A Final Rule (Microbiology):
Our first guide focuses on the specific regulations and requirements pertaining to microbiology proficiency testing. With a comprehensive exploration of these guidelines, this guide is a useful resource for microbiology labs striving to ensure precision and integrity in their testing procedures. From the required categories of testing to maintaining optimal testing conditions, the guide details the updates that promote adherence to the highest standards of quality and safety.
2. Proficiency Testing Regulations Related to Analytes and Acceptable Performance – A Final Rule (Non-Microbiology):
For non-microbiology laboratories, our second guide delves into the updated proficiency testing regulations concerning various analytes. From chemistry to haematology, molecular diagnostics to immunology, this guide offers a comprehensive overview of the new requirements and minimum performance specifications. By embracing these regulations, medical laboratories can uphold the utmost accuracy and reliability in their test results, ensuring optimal patient care and clinical decision-making.
Elevating Laboratory Practices:
These educational guides are indispensable tools that empower laboratories to navigate the changing landscape of proficiency testing regulations. By staying informed and adopting the updated minimum performance specifications, laboratories can maintain compliance, demonstrate excellence, and ultimately deliver the highest quality of care to their patients.
Accessing the Guides:
We invite you to access these comprehensive educational guides by following the link provided below. They offer a wealth of knowledge and practical insights, serving as essential references for laboratory professionals, quality managers, and anyone involved in clinical diagnostics.
With the implementation of updated CLIA proficiency testing regulations on the horizon, these educational guides come at a crucial time. By embracing the knowledge and guidance they provide, laboratories can navigate the changing landscape with confidence and ensure their adherence to the highest standards of proficiency testing. Together, let’s strive for excellence, precision, and patient-centric care in clinical laboratory practices.
#CLIARegulations #ProficiencyTesting #ClinicalLaboratories #QualityAssurance #PatientCare
Microbiology
Non-Microbiology
Acusera 24.7 – Interlaboratory Data Management Reporting Software
Acusera 24•7 is a live, cloud based interlaboratory data management and peer group reporting software, intended to assist in the management of daily QC activities.
Designed to complement our range of Acusera true third party controls.
Key Benefits of Acusera 24•7
Peer Group Statistics
Updated live in real-time, labs can compare statistics to their peers and identify any unique or widespread issues to help reduce time and money spent on troubleshooting.
Fully Interactive Charts
Ability to compare performance, assess trends and monitor performance with automatically generated Levey-Jennings, Histograms and Performance Summary Charts.
Highly Flexible
Labs can configure their own performance limits, multi-rules, consensus groups and target values for each instrument or lot of QC.
Comprehensive Reports
Comprehensive, easy-to-read and customisable reports have been designed to speed up the review process and include Statistical Metrics, Uncertainty of Measurement, Exception & more.
24/7 Access
Gain access to this cloud-based software at anytime, anywhere. Removing the need installation, software maintenance and frequent back-ups.
Advanced Statistical Analysis
Automatically calculating advanced statistics including %Bias, Total Error and Sigma Metrics helps enhance performance assessment, improve QC strategy, and meet regulatory requirements.
Unique Dashboard Interface
Reduce time spent analysing data as instant identification of any QC failures over the past 7 days and alerts of product expiry are highlighted in the unique dashboard design.
Automated Data Import
Upload QC data directly to Acusera 24•7 via LIMS and middleware. This automated function eliminates the need for manual data entry and helps save money whilst increasing efficiency.
Technical Support
Expert technical support is available for users. Laboratories can access this service for troubleshooting purposes and therefore eliminates the need for on-site assistance.
Features of Acusera 24•7
The fast, intelligent user interface on 24•7 enables rapid review of QC data and QC failures, reducing the time spent analysing and identifying errors.
The new and improved home screen allows users to carry out tasks such as: Creation of new tests/panels | Filtering results by analyte/ instrument/ lot number | Entering single or several QC test(s) without having to navigate away to multiple areas within the application.
Specifically designed to speed up the review process, our comprehensive range of easy-to read reports include: Data Review | Exception Report | Statistical Analysis Report | Statistical Metrics Report
Customise reports to show data for a specific date range aswell as a particular test or instrument.
Instant access to interactive Levey-Jennings, Histogram and Performance Summary Charts as well as the ability to add events and multiple data sets to a single chart allows for swift performance monitoring and superior identification of trends across multiple instruments.
One location for all of your statistical analysis needs.
The enhanced data review screen on 24•7 allows users to review all QC results within a 7-day date range.
Reviewing all QC results and not just violations on a daily basis provides greater control of any potential issues occurring before they become widespread.
Preview mode on 24•7 allows users to recall the assay and instrument configurations used to create each QC test directly from the home screen.
Direct access into: Results Entry | Charts | Data Entry | QC Test Configuration | Assay Configuration for a single test, from any area in the application
New toggle feature allows users to set whether they are entering single or summarised results.
Reducing the number of fields for single result entry and therefore keystroke tabbing, allowing for greater ease-of-use.
What The Users Say:
“We have been using 24.7 as our IQC management solution for some time now after changing over from a different provider. To begin with the change was met with resistance, and I have to admit that I was one of those people. Change always is challenging, and it took time to adapt to a newer and different system.
However, over time, and with Randox’s assistance, 24.7 has become part and parcel of everyday IQC monitoring and management. From the ease of use of configuring new instruments, assays, panels and lot numbers to the plethora of data that can be extracted to aid in optimal IQC management, 24.7 offers the flexibility to adapt to any user organisation.”
Nuffield Health – United Kingdom
Resources
How To Guide: Logging in
How To Guide: Adding Events
How To Guide: Adding QC Panel
How To Guide: Adding QC Tests
How To Guide: Chart Generation and Overview
How To Guide: Data Entry Options
How To Guide: Exception Report
How To Guide: Home Page
How To Guide: Manual Data Entry
How To Guide: Navigating Side Bars
How To Guide: Peer Group Statistics
How To Guide: Result History
How To Guide: Statistical Analysis Report
How To Guide: Statistical Metrics Report
How To Guide: Uncertainty of Measurement
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Acusera 24•7 FAQs
Acusera 24•7 Login
24•7 Brochure
Contact Us
Neonatal Bilirubin External Quality Assessment
The RIQAS Neonatal Bilirubin EQA programme has been designed to assess the performance of total and direct bilirubin assays with levels tailored to neonatal bilirubin testing.
- Lyophilised for enhanced stability
- Monthly reporting
- Human based serum
- Submit results and view reports online via RIQAS.net
- Rapid turnaround of reports allows for any necessary corrective actions to be taken with minimal disruption to laboratory output
- Cycle Starts – July 2025
| Cat No | Kit Size | Frequency | Parameters | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RQ9191 | 2 x (6x3ml) | Monthly (1 x 12 month cycle) | 2 | |
Parameter
- Direct Bilirubin
- Total Bilirubin
Please note, product availability may vary country to country.
Randox International Quality Assessment Scheme (RIQAS)
RIQAS is the world’s largest External Quality Assessment scheme with more than 76,000 laboratory participants spanning over 139 countries.
Key Benefits of RIQAS
Cost Effective
Consolidate EQA analysis, reduce workload and costs with our comprehensive, multi-parameter programmes.
Flexible Programme Options
Flexible programme options are available to suit all laboratory budgets. The option to register up to five instruments per programme (volume permitting) at no extra cost for comparative performance assessment
Accredited
RIQAS is accredited to ISO/IEC 17043:2010 “Conformity Assessment – General Requirements for Proficiency Testing” which is accepted by national and international accreditation bodies. Please see accreditation schedule for additional information.
Expansive Peer Group Database
The availability of large peer groups ensures robust data is available for a wide range of instruments and methods.
Rapid, User-Friendly Reports
Our rapid, user-friendly reports allow at-a-glance performance assessment. Complimentary multi-instrument, inter-laboratory and end-of-cycle reports are also available.
Commutable Samples
A commutable sample matrix increases confidence that performance mimics that of patient samples.
Early Identification of Test System Errors
Frequent reporting allows early identification of test system errors, while our 72 hour report turnaround enables corrective action to be taken with minimum disruption to the lab.
Convenient Data Upload System
RIQAS.net is a convenient, web-based data entry system which allows participants to return results and view reports online.
High Quality Samples
EQA samples are manufactured to the highest quality standard and span clinically relevant levels.
RIQAS EQA Programmes
Choice & flexibility are guaranteed with our 36 programme portfolio.
Browse the programmes below
RIQAS EQA Reports
User-friendly, one-page per parameter reports allow for at-a-glance performance assessment.
Browse the reports below.
What Does RIQAS Provide?
RIQAS Calendar 2024
What the Participants say:
“EcoScense LLC joined RIQAS in 2015 and currently run the General Clinical Chemistry, Haematology and Microbiology Programmes. We chose RIQAS as it is the best quality and has the most accessible programmes with weekly and monthly reporting available. We are very satisfied with the service and support we receive from the Randox team.”
EcoSenseLLC – Armenia
“Alfa Diagnostica have been participating in RIQAS for 6 years. Over this time, the number of programmes has increased from 4 to 12, including Haematology, Immunoassay, Coagulation and Urinalysis. We chose RIQAS because of its quality, well-thought-out programmes, convenient scheduling and the large number of participants. RIQAS has enhanced the quality of our services by providing a flexible, convenient and objective instrument for self-evaluation. It has served as proof of reliable results for any interested third party.”
Alfa Diagnostica SRL – Republic of Moldova
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RIQAS Brochure
RIQAS Parameters
RIQAS.net
RIQAS Calendar
Contact Us
RIQAS Past Panels
RIQAS (Randox International Quality Assessment Scheme) is the largest global EQA scheme with over 76,000 participants in more than 139 countries. Our range currently comprises 36 programmes and the majority of clinical testing.
What are RIQAS Past Panels?
Available Panels
• Ammonia/ Ethanol
• Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)
• Anti-TSH Receptor
• Blood Gas
• BNP
• Cardiac
• Cardiac Plus
• Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
• Coagulation
• CO-Oximetry
• CYFRA 21-1
• Cytokines
• ESR
• General Clinical Chemistry
• Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c)
• Haematology
• Human Urine
• Immunoassay
• Immunoassay Speciality 1
• Immunoassay Speciality 2
• Immunosuppressant
• Lipid
• Maternal Screening
• Microbiology (Bacterial Identification)
• Neonatal Bilirubin
• Serology (Anti-SARS-CoV-2)
• Serology (EBV)
• Serology (HIV/ Hepatitis)
• Serology (Syphilis)
• Serology (ToRCH)
• Serum Indices
• Specific Proteins
• Sweat Testing
• Therapeutic Drugs
• Urinalysis
• Urine Toxicology
*Product availability is dependent on RIQAS stock surplus levels.
Benefits of RIQAS Past Panels
All RIQAS Past Panels are provided with an Excel document containing supporting data for the instrument and method of interest.
RIQAS Past Panel samples span multiple levels, making them ideal for ensuring accurate instrument performance across the measuring range.
RIQAS Past Panels allow laboratories to receive comprehensive external QC reports even after program close.
RIQAS Serology Report
The Serology report is available within ten days of the final submission date. The results for each parameter are displayed on a single page report. There are two types of Serology report – one for qualitative reporting and one for quantitative reporting. Each of these report ensure quick and easy performance assessment.
RIQAS EQA Reports
The Qualitative report comprises three subsections including a text section, Histogram and method summary. The text section conveniently displays your laboratory’s result to the correct result for your method. The Histogram visually displays your laboratory’s result in relation to all of the results submitted for your method group and the all method group. Finally, the method summary provides a breakdown of the results for all methods registered with RIQAS.
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The Quantitative report comprises four subsections including a text section, Histogram, Levey-Jennings chart and method summary. The text section conveniently displays your laboratory’s result to the mean for comparison, the histogram visually displays your laboratory’s result to the mean for comparison, the Levey-Jennings chart displays the SD for the last 20 samples ensuring instant identification of performance over time and finally the method summary provides a breakdown of the results submitted for all methods registered with RIQAS.
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RIQAS Urinalysis Report
RIQAS Urinalysis reports have been designed specifically for participants of the RIQAS Urinalysis programme (RQ9138). Report features include;
- Scoring system
- Ability to rate performance and visualise historical performance data
- Visual representation of performance
- Peer group comparison levels
To find out more on the range of features available with the report, see the table below.
RIQAS EQA Reports
The Urinalysis Report scoring system, scores participants based on a spread of results over each category and how far a participant is away from the consensus, which is referred to as the Target Category.
The score calculated is based on how close to the target category a participant’s result falls. A score of 0 refers to a result which falls within the target category and therefore, the comment “acceptable” will be given. A laboratory’s performance is described as being acceptable or unacceptable based on this calculated score.
A laboratory must achieve a score of between -6 and +6 for their performance to be deemed acceptable. Scores can fall between the values of -10 and +8.
- If a participant’s result matches the target category then they will receive the score of 0 and the comment “acceptable” given.
- Where a participant returns a negative result and the target category is positive (category 9), the participant score will be -10. The comment “unacceptable” will be given.
- Where a participant returns a positive result (category 9) and the target category is negative, the participant score will be +8 and the comment “unacceptable” given.
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Current Sample
The score achieved for the current reported sample together with the associated comment of acceptable, unacceptable or borderline will be listed in the comments box located towards the top of the results page for each registered parameter. The percentage (%) of results from the selected peer group which fall within the target category are also stated.
Potential Historical Information
The number of correct scores (i.e. scores of 0) that have been submitted in the last “n” samples, up to a maximum of 6 previous samples. The number of acceptable assessments that have been submitted in the last “n” samples, up to a maximum of 6 previous samples.
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Charting of Current & Historical Information
Results of scoring for each sample are displayed on a Levey-Jennings style chart with “0” score in the middle and scoring categories positioned on either side for 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10. The chart is shaded into bands depending on the scores.
Acceptable scores (0-6) have no shading, Borderline scores (6-8) have light red shading and unacceptable scores (8-10) are shaded a darker red.
Scores for each of the last 12 samples are plotted against the appropriate sample number and the chart also indicates whether the participant’s reported result category is higher or lower than the target category.
The target categories are stated along the top of the chart and if there are no target categories due to a lack of numbers then an “X” is plotted to show that a result has been submitted but could not be scored.
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Reporting – Summary Page
The summary page at the end of the report lists all of the parameters that a participant has registered for.
For each parameter the following information is stated:
- Target Category, which is dependent on the unit registered
- The result which has returned by the participant
- The score achieved for the current sample
- The comment of Acceptable / Unacceptable / Borderline
- Where the comment is “Unacceptable” it is highlighted in bold italics and underlined
- The number of “Acceptable” assessments that have been achieved over the previous 6 samples
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RIQAS Urine Toxicology Report
A dedicated report is provided for the Urine Toxicology programme. The report is divided into two subsections; the screening (qualitative) and the quantitative section, allowing for visual performance assessment at-a-glance.
RIQAS EQA Reports
Your laboratory’s result is displayed along with the correct response. A visual chart is also provided displaying performance of the last 20 samples. A breakdown of the screening results submitted by other laboratories in your method group and all method groups for the current sample is also provided at a variety of cut-offs. A further breakdown is provided for various methods at your specific cut-off.
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The Quantitative section of the Urine Toxicology report is further broken down into a text section comparing your laboratory’s performance to the mean for comparison, a Histogram chart indicating your laboratory’s performance in relation to the method group and the all method group and a multi-method section highlighting the performance of other methods.
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This Christmas, treat your laboratory to the “gift” of Randox Quality Control
At Christmas time all around the globe, people search for the best gift for their loved ones, something they will really like. At Randox Quality Control, we understand you care for your patients, and your laboratory. This year, show how much you care by treating your lab to a Randox Quality Control.
With over 35 years’ experience in the market, Quality Control is our passion and streamlining QC practice is our forte! Our extensive product offering comprises true third party controls, interlaboratory data management, external quality assessment and calibration verification.
Last year we looked in depth at Acusera – our range of true third party controls. This year, lets add another product to the Christmas wish list in the form of RIQAS, the world’s largest EQA scheme. Don’t wait until Christmas to wake up to a RIQAS programme under your tree – enrol in one of our comprehensive programmes today.
With over 45,000 laboratory participants across 133 countries, our RIQAS portfolio spans 32 comprehensive programmes ranging from Chemistry to Immunoassay, Lipids to Cardiac, Drugs to Serology and much more!
User-friendly, one page per parameter reports are available within 72 hours of the submission deadline. These reports enable at-a-glance performance assessment, ultimately allowing your laboratory to save valuable time. You will also gain access to complimentary multi-instrument and inter-laboratory reports as well as an end-of-cycle report summarising laboratory performance for each cycle and helping to identify progress over time.
Consolidation is key – and with an extensive parameter index available (up to 360 parameters) RIQAS will help you to significantly reduce costs, time and the number of individual programmes required to cover your test menu.
All RIQAS samples are free from interfering preservatives ensuring a commutable matrix that reacts to the test system in the same manner as a patient sample.
Additionally, enrolling in RIQAS isn’t just enrolling in an EQA scheme. Our programmes are accepted by National and International accreditation bodies worldwide and at the end of each cycle, participation in the scheme results in a certificate that can be used to decorate your laboratory all year around – not just at Christmas!
So this Christmas don’t give your laboratory second best, choose RIQAS, and reap the rewards.
To find out more on any of our RIQAS programmes visit our website – http://www.randox.com/riqas-external-quality-assessment/ or email us at acusera@randox.com
Randox Quality Control wish you all Season’s Greetings & a Prosperous New Year!
RIQAS Instrument Group Report
All RIQAS participants are entitled to register up to five separate instruments per programme at no extra cost.
Individual reports for each instrument are supplied as normal in addition to a complimentary instrument group report allowing the performance of each instrument to be uniquely compared and assessed easily.
RIQAS EQA Reports
The multi-instrument group report displays the %Deviation for the last 10 samples along with the RM%Dev across all registered laboratory instruments. The %Dev for each instrument is plotted on a user-friendly, colour coded chart for instant identification of poor performing instruments.
As an ISO requirement, the Multi-Instrument Report is an extremely useful and beneficial tool for laboratories – “Laboratories with two or more analysers for examinations, should have a defined mechanism for comparison of results across analysers” – ISO 15189:2012.
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