What is PT quality?

Proficiency Testing (PT), as it is introduced in ISO/IEC 17025, is the best method for evaluation of the laboratories performance by using interlaboratory comparisons. It provides independent evidence that the laboratory produces technically valid and reliable results.

What are PT samples?

Proficiency Testing Sample or PT Sample: a sample obtained from an approved provider to evaluate the ability of a laboratory to produce an analytical test result meeting the definition of acceptable performance outlined in s. NR 149.27.

What is a proficiency testing scheme?

Proficiency Testing (PT) schemes operate by providing participating laboratories with test samples for analysis. Benchmarks performance with that of other participant laboratories. Demonstrates to end users of analytical data, regulatory bodies and accreditation bodies that there is a commitment to measurement quality.

Who does proficiency testing?

Proficiency testing, or PT, is the testing of unknown samples sent to a laboratory by an HHS-approved PT program. Most sets of PT samples are sent to participating laboratories on a scheduled basis (usually three times per year). After testing, the laboratory reports its sample results back to their PT program.

What are regulated analytes?

Regulated analytes are tests found in Subpart 1 of “Proficiency Testing Programs for Nonwaived Testing” in the CLIA regulations. PT IS REQUIRED for these tests. Unregulated analytes are tests not found in Subpart 1 of “Proficiency Testing Programs for Nonwaived Testing” in the CLIA regulations.

How is proficiency testing done?

In a proficiency test one or more artifacts are sent around between a number of participating laboratories. Each laboratory measures the artifacts (e.g. a ring gage or a set of gage blocks) according to a given set of instructions and reports its results to the administrator.

Why do we do proficiency testing?

The term “Proficiency Testing” refers to any activity undertaken by a laboratory in order to provide objective evidence that they are “proficient” or “competent” to perform measurements.

What is the purpose of proficiency testing?

Conclusion: Proficiency testing allows an individual laboratory to evaluate if its performance is satisfactory for the intended clinical purpose. Comparison of results among laboratories allows evaluation of the effectiveness of calibration procedures in the field.