Bacteriology Proficiency Testing Program
Bacteriology PT Program
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General Information
The Bacteriology Proficiency Testing Program consists of 4 categories: General, Restricted (for labs performing urine cultures, throat cultures, antigen detection tests, antigen detection tests for Group A Streptococcus, and/or tests for gonorrhea and Chlamydia), Gram stains and Other (for labs performing specialized testing).
The Bacteriology Proficiency Testing Program
Three proficiency testing events are given annually, each consisting of a minimum of five specimens. In order to successfully complete a test event, participating laboratories must achieve a score of 80% or greater. Failure of the testing program is defined as a score of less than 80% on two of three consecutive test events. New laboratories entering the program must successfully complete one test event as well as an on-site inspection before a permit is issued.
Authentication
The presence and identity of the organism(s) in each specimen must be confirmed by at least 80% of the referee or participating laboratories. Referee laboratories are selected from New York State participating laboratories (located throughout the State) with acceptable and reproducible levels of performance. The vials are subjected to extensive quality control testing in our laboratory during preparation and storage.
Laboratory Questionnaire
- Questionnaire (PDF -- 204k)