The Role of External Quality Assurance in Identifying Poor Laboratory Performance project will examine pathology laboratory performance from a number of perspectives.
Previously the RCPA QAP ran a Key Performance Indicators (KPI) trial. This trial, which showed equivocal results, will be revisited for chemical pathology as this data has now been collected over four years.
In addition, KPIs will be developed for other pathology disciplines, notably anatomical pathology and transfusion serology, and evaluated as indicators. Peer review protocols will be established for each discipline, and individual benchmarks set for adequacy of external quality assurance (EQA) performance as triggers for concern. The protocols will then be trialled in collaboration with the National Association of Testing Authorities Australia (NATA). The trials will determine whether early indicators of poor performance can be developed around the regular EQA that laboratories perform as part of the accreditation process.
Another part of this project will establish a working party with the Therapeutic Goods Administration to develop ways to identify sub‐standard tests and kits that can have a direct effect on pathology laboratory performance.
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