The largest global EQA scheme in the world  

External Quality Assessment

External Quality Assessment (EQA) is an essential aspect of any laboratory operation. EQA provides a means of assessing the analytical performance of a laboratory compared to other laboratories utilising the same methods and instruments.

Overall objective of EQA:

To develop inter-laboratory comparability which allows standardisation of diagnostic testing. EQA measures a laboratory's accuracy using 'blind' samples that are analysed as if they were patient samples. Results are returned to the scheme organiser for statistical analysis. Laboratories receive a report comparing their individual performance against other participants in the programme. EQA has a number of functions:

1. Maintaining and improving the analytical quality of laboratory tests

2. Improving inter-laboratory agreement and raising standards

3. Detecting equipment failures, identifying reagent problems, reviewing staff training

4. Initiating and evaluating corrective actions

5. Comparing different analytical methods

Participation in an EQA scheme will help produce reliable and accurate reporting of patient results. Quality results will reduce time and labour costs, and most importantly provide accurate patient diagnosis and treatment.

Laboratory accreditation

RIQAS provides Certificates of Participation as proof of EQA participation for laboratory accreditation. Randox and RIQAS systems and procedures are accredited to a number of internationally recognised standards:

1. ISO 13485:2003 for the design and manufacture of medical devices

2. United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) accreditation to ISO/IEC Guide 43-1:1997 “Development and operation of proficiency testing schemes” through assessment against ILAC-G13:2007 “Guidelines for the Requirements for the Competence of Providers of Proficiency Testing Schemes”

3. Recognised by the UK National Quality Assurance Advisory Panel (NQAAP)

4. Recognised by the Joint Working Group on Quality Assurance (JWG QA)