Immunohematology Proficiency Testing Program

General Information

The Immunohematology Proficiency Testing Program monitors the quality of immunohematology testing performed by New York State-permitted laboratories. A New York State permit in immunohematology is required to perform such testing. Oversight is authorized by NYS Public Health Law (Article 5, Title V) and the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988. The Program evaluates the proficiency test results from over 300 laboratories and assists laboratories with unsatisfactory performance in developing appropriate corrective actions. Staff occasionally conducts on-site investigations. Enforcement action is initiated, as appropriate.

Laboratories must participate in proficiency testing for each category and analyte for which the laboratory seeks or currently holds a permit. Proficiency test specimens are mailed three times per year to participating laboratories. Each proficiency test kit includes five whole blood specimens in CPDA-1 for ABO, Subgroups of A, Rh, Rh phenotype, direct antiglobulin test (DAT), and compatibility testing. Five serum specimens are provided for laboratories that perform unexpected antibody detection, antibody identification, and/or compatibility testing.

Information regarding the Electronic Proficiency Test Reporting System is available at www.wadsworth.org/labcert/clep/PT/eptrs.htm.