Ensuring that laboratories receive high-quality samples
The organisation of External Quality Assessments (EQAs) is performed under an ISO 17043 accreditation, ensuring that the laboratories receive high-quality samples, delivered on time and under appropriate conditions, that results are correctly processed and reports are delivered with the right information.
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To ensure high-quality External Quality Assessments under ISO 17043 accreditation, we manage our quality system by :
- taking care of updating existing documents
- creating new quality documents
- managing the EQA survey files.
The following elements are paramount for the realisation of the External Quality Assessments:
The laboratory
In our laboratory we produce adequate samples in sufficient quantities and of good quality. In this context, we take care of the:
- preparation, storage, dispatch and management of EQA samples of different origins (full blood, serum, plasma, urine, bacterial cultures, sperm samples, simulated samples, virtual samples, etc.)
- analysis of samples to ensure their quality and homogeneity.
Logistics
In order to deliver more than 35,000 samples a year to medical and veterinary laboratories on time, correctly and under the right storage conditions, our role also includes a logistics section. In this process, we draw up response forms that are sent together with the samples. After the survey, we ensure that the results are collected correctly and on time.
Statistics
In order to analyze and evaluate the quality of the results in the EQA reports in a scientifically sound way, we use extensive statistical analyses. These statistical analyses support the reports for participating laboratories and scientific articles written on the basis of the EQA results. In addition, we develop new methods to expand the interpretation and presentation of the EQA results. Our research leads to:
- better interpretation of Z and U scores
- correct long-term monitoring of laboratories
- the assurance of the quality of sample material used in the EQAs
- more informative reports through advanced graphic techniques.
The administration
Finally, there is also an important administrative section responsible for the management of data relating to the licenses of medical laboratories. Registrations for EQAs and applications for (renewal of) a license are also submitted to us.
Laboratories can put questions about their accreditation and EQAs to Arnaud Capron.