Lab Med Qual Assur.  2021 Mar;43(1):9-18. 10.15263/jlmqa.2021.43.1.9.

New Classification System of Measurement Methods for Clinical Chemistry Program of Proficiency Test

• Lee YW
• Kim JG
• Nam KW
• Jeon BR

• KMID: 2514596
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.15263/jlmqa.2021.43.1.9

Abstract

Background
The current status of the method classification system for each test of the general chemistry test program included in the proficiency test of the Korean Association of External Quality Assessment Service (KEQAS) was investigated. A revised method classification system for the general chemistry program based on the related data and relevant literature was proposed.
Methods
The classification status of the test methods was investigated for 28 test items registered in the general chemistry program in the proficiency test of the KEQAS, and the test methods and principles were reviewed. Instructions for instruments and reagents were obtained from the manufacturers and reviewed. Based on this, a newly revised test method classification system for each of the general chemistry programs was established.
Results
The current and revised classification systems were compared, and an adequate test method was assigned to each reagent according to the new classification system. The test method and principle, revised classification system proposal and related evidence, and the comparative analysis of the current classification system and the reorganized new classification system are presented on www.schlab.org. Moreover, it was made available to the manufacturers and participating laboratories.
Conclusions
The improvement of the classification system for the general chemical test program test method could provide more reliable information and credible survey data suitable for the reagents used by participants. Through the revised system, misclassification and omission of data from the proficiency test can be prevented and more reliable survey results and accurate peer group analysis can be achieved.

Keyword

Proficiency test; Clinical chemistry; Laboratory test