Center for disease control diagnostic immunology proficiency testing program results for 1976

Area of Science:

• Clinical Laboratory Science
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• The 1976 Proficiency Testing Program assessed diagnostic immunology laboratory performance.
• The Center for Disease Control (CDC) administered the program under the Clinical Laboratories Improvement Act of 1967.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the proficiency of over 900 participating laboratories in diagnostic immunology.
• To identify trends in testing protocols within these laboratories.
• To provide data for improving laboratory performance.

Main Methods:

• Distribution of 100 specimens by the CDC on a quarterly schedule and in special surveys.
• Analysis of over 37,500 qualitative and 33,000 quantitative responses from participating laboratories.
• Inclusion of data on testing protocols to delineate trends.

Main Results:

• Individual laboratory proficiency levels were determined through data analysis.
• Trends in testing protocols were identified based on participant-supplied information.
• Specimens covered a broad range of common diagnostic immunology tests.

Conclusions:

• The program provided valuable feedback for laboratories to enhance their performance.
• The data analysis offered insights into the state of diagnostic immunology testing in 1976.
• Continuous proficiency testing is crucial for maintaining high standards in clinical laboratories.