IQCP: Guideline and helpful tools for implementation

Abstract

This article will help laboratories understand what changed with external quality control testing, why it changed, who changed it, when the changes became effective, and how these changes affect clinical laboratories. The new Individualized Quality Control Plan (IQCP) option that became effective January 1, 2016, will be explained. Three other quality control changes that took effect January 1, 2016, and dramatically affect quality control requirements for antimicrobial susceptibility testing, identification test systems, and exempt culture media will also be explained. Guidelines and tools are provided that can assist laboratories in determining what is eligible for IQCP and how to design an IQCP program.