About

Regular participation in an external quality assessment scheme (EQAS) is critical for ensuring acceptable laboratory performance facilitating optimal patient care. We initiated an EQAS for haemostasis in India in the year 2000 to encourage participation in such programs which is uncommon for laboratories in developing countries due to lack of awareness of its significance, absence of locally administered and easily accessible programs, and costs associated with some of the international schemes. We subsequently added the Molecular Genetics module in 2003 and the Transfusion Medicine module in 2005. This initially was limited to 25 laboratories associated with the chapters of the Hemophilia Federation (India). This was converted to a national program in 2003, in association with the Indian Society of Haematology and Transfusion Medicine. Local manufacture of survey samples began in 2004, along with analysis of results. CMC-EQAS program provides participants with educational opportunities as well as reports indicating how a laboratory is performing, aimed at enhancing laboratory competency, helping to ensure clinical laboratory test results are accurate, reliable and comparable. The program has helped identify causes of unacceptable performance. Participation is on a voluntary basis and is open to all testing laboratories. Utmost confidentiality is maintained by the program. Registration is usually for a minimum of one year with subscriptions payable in advance and are subsidized at present. The program also ensures convenient enrolment and participation for subscribers. CMC-EQAS program supports proficiency testing in other countries as well.