Quality control is a critical aspect of laboratory testing. It involves the use of quality control materials to monitor the accuracy and precision of laboratory tests. Quality control materials are samples of known composition that are used to detect any errors in laboratory testing processes. Third-party quality controls are a type of quality control material that is produced by independent manufacturers. In this article, we will explore the benefits of using third-party quality controls in laboratories.
Unbiased Results
Third-party quality controls provide unbiased results. This is because they are produced by independent manufacturers who have no vested interest in the laboratory’s test results. Third-party quality controls are designed to mimic patient samples and are subjected to the same testing processes as patient samples. This ensures that the laboratory obtains accurate and unbiased results.
Improved Confidence in Results
Using third-party quality controls improves confidence in laboratory test results. This is because they are manufactured independently, and their values are traceable to national and international standards. The use of third-party quality controls ensures that laboratory test results are accurate and reliable. It also provides assurance to healthcare providers and patients that laboratory tests are performed to the highest quality standards.
Cost-Effective
Using third-party quality controls is cost-effective. This is because the cost of producing quality control materials can be expensive for laboratories. By outsourcing the production of quality control materials to independent manufacturers, laboratories can reduce their costs. Third-party quality controls are produced in large quantities and are available for a wide range of laboratory tests. This makes them more cost-effective than producing in-house quality control materials.
Compliance with Accreditation Standards
Using third-party quality controls ensures compliance with accreditation standards. Accreditation bodies, such as the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), require laboratories to use external quality controls as part of their accreditation process. Third-party quality controls are manufactured to meet these accreditation standards, ensuring that laboratories remain compliant.
Wide Range of Available Materials
Third-party quality controls are available for a wide range of laboratory tests. This includes hematology, chemistry, immunology, microbiology, and molecular diagnostics. This range of available materials ensures that laboratories can find quality control materials that are suitable for their testing needs. Third-party quality controls are also available in different levels of complexity, from basic to advanced, enabling laboratories to choose quality controls that are appropriate for their testing processes.
Expert Technical Support
Third-party quality control manufacturers offer expert technical support. This support includes assistance with selecting appropriate quality controls, troubleshooting, and interpretation of quality control results. This support can be invaluable to laboratories, particularly those with limited resources or expertise in quality control.
Reduced Risk of Errors
Using third-party quality controls reduces the risk of errors in laboratory testing processes. This is because they are designed to mimic patient samples and are subjected to the same testing processes as patient samples. By using third-party quality controls, laboratories can identify any errors in their testing processes before patient samples are tested. This reduces the risk of errors in patient testing, improving patient care and outcomes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the use of third-party quality controls in laboratories provides several benefits, including unbiased results, improved confidence in laboratory test results, cost-effectiveness, compliance with accreditation standards, a wide range of available materials, expert technical support, and reduced risk of errors. Third-party quality controls are a critical component of quality control in laboratories and are essential for ensuring accurate and reliable laboratory test results. The benefits of using third-party quality controls make them a valuable resource for laboratories of all sizes and types.
