Cairo Consensus on Accreditation as the Basis for Future-Proofing the ART Laboratory

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Laboratory Science
• Quality Management

Background:

• Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) laboratories require strategies for long-term operational stability and adaptability.
• Laboratory accreditation provides a foundational framework for achieving 'future-proofing' in ART settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish globally applicable strategies for future-proofing ART laboratories.
• To identify core principles and practical recommendations for enhancing ART laboratory operations.

Main Methods:

• An international consensus meeting was convened.
• Discussions focused on laboratory accreditation principles and their application to ART laboratory services.
• The scope included egg retrieval, semen analysis, embryo transfer, and cryobanking.

Main Results:

• 16 core consensus points were reached regarding future-proofing ART laboratories.
• Extensive practical recommendations were developed covering all aspects of ART laboratory operations.
• The focus was strictly on laboratory operations, excluding clinical treatment decisions.

Conclusions:

• Applying foundational laboratory accreditation principles is key to future-proofing ART laboratories.
• A comprehensive framework based on these principles supports sustained excellence in ART laboratory services.
• The consensus provides actionable guidance for ART laboratories worldwide.