Strengthening Laboratory Quality Management Systems using NRL STEPs
NRL is a not-for-profit and independent organisation that supports laboratories performing testing for human infectious diseases to achieve high quality and accurate test results. NRL is also designated a WHO Collaborating Centre for Diagnostics and Laboratory Support for HIV/AIDS and other Blood-borne Infections. Since its establishment in 1985, NRL has delivered high quality education and training in quality management systems, quality assurance programs, evaluation of test kits, validation of testing algorithms and laboratory testing using a model called NRL STEPs (Sustainable Training, Education and Partnerships).
NRL STEPs is a structured, stepwise approach to strengthening laboratory systems. Using NRL STEPs, our laboratory capacity building model identifies areas for improvement; responds to needs through education and training; and ensures sustainability of improved laboratory services. Integral to any laboratory quality management system are external quality assessment schemes (EQAS; also known as proficiency testing). EQAS serve to monitor the performance of laboratory processes and test kits.
Using NRL STEPs, NRL has worked with partners in Indonesia, Vietnam, Mongolia and Fiji to establish national EQAS, resulting in:
• national EQAS for HIV, HCV and HBV being provided to 43 blood transfusion laboratories in Vietnam;
• EQAS for HIV being implemented in six provinces in Indonesia;
• pilot EQAS for HIV, HCV, HBV and Syphilis being provided to 30 provincial laboratories in Mongolia with a view to expanding to >350 laboratories;
and • pilot EQAS for HIV, which will be delivered in Fiji by the end of 2012.
In order to build the elements of quality in laboratory testing, NRL works with partners to enable change that will lead to measureable and sustainable improvements. NRL STEPs provides the foundation for laboratories to deliver accurate test results and better patient outcomes. Using NRL STEPs, national EQAS have been implemented in several regions, contributing to the improvement of laboratory quality.
