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Laboratory Quality Assurance Program

Microscope

The Program Management Committee oversees the activities of six subject committees: Biochemistry, Transfusion Medicine, Hematology, Microbiology and Anatomic Pathology (includes histopathology and cytopathology). These Committees in turn, oversee the quality assurance activities in all medical laboratories performing tests in the Province.

These laboratories are required to participate in External Proficiency Testing Programs specified by the subject committee. Currently, the program uses the following: Healthmetrx; CMPT; ALQEP and CAP. Results obtained from regular blind specimen analysis are compared to peer laboratories using a fixed limit value and the performance monitored by the committee. Those laboratories having difficulties achieving satisfactory proficiency in the tests, which they normally perform, are contacted by the appropriate committee which assists them in raising their standards through education and remediation.

The Laboratory Quality Assurance Program has been instrumental in revising the Laboratory Licensing Act and its Regulations to reflect changes in laboratory practices since the Act was enacted. Revisions are making it more compatible with the changes in lab operation under the direction of health authorities.

The Committee continues to work together with the laboratory personnel within the province to maintain and improve the high quality of laboratory services. A peer review accreditation process ensures adherence to standards and processes over a 3-5 year cycle.

A report of the Committee's activities is published each year.

More information on Laboratory Quality Assurance is available here.