RIQAS EQA Pilot Programmes
RIQAS EQA Pilot Programmes
RIQAS is the world’s largest External Quality Assessment scheme with more than 50,000 laboratory participants spanning over 139 countries
RIQAS Pilot Programmes
RIQAS Haematology 5-Part Differentials & Reticulocytes – Pilot Study
This new Haematology pilot study will be suitable for use across multiple analytical systems however, manual method will not be assessed. Consisting of 3 samples covering multiple concentrations, this pilot is open for current and potential participants. The EQA material will be provided in 3 primary sample tubes with a volume of 2ml (3 x 2ml)
Key Benefits
- Liquid ready-to-use sample material
- Submit results and view reports online via RIQAS.net
- Human-based, preserved, whole blood samples – no latex or artificial particles used in production, stabilised mammalian cells only
- All samples should be analysed and results submitted together
| RIQAS Haematology 5-Part Differentials & Reticulocytes – Pilot Study Analytes | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Haemoglobin | MPV | RDW-CV | WBC Eos |
| HCT | PCT | RDW-SD | WBC Lym |
| MCH | PDW | Reticulocytes | WBC Mon |
| MCHC | PLT | WBC | WBC Neu |
| MCV | RBC | WBC Bas | |
| Cat. Number | Kit Size | Parameters | |
|---|---|---|---|
| RQ9192 | 3 x 2ml | 19 |
RIQAS Neonatal Bilirubin – Pilot Study
Further expansion of our RIQAS portfolio via the introduction of this new pilot study. Designed to assess the performance of total and direct bilirubin assays with levels tailored specifically to neonatal bilirubin testing.
Direct Bilirubin (2.8 – 278 umol/l) | Total Bilirubin (4.8 – 638 umol/l)
Key Benefits
- Lyophilised samples for enhanced stability
- Submit results and view reports online via RIQAS.net
- Human based serum matrix
- All samples should be analysed and results submitted together
| RIQAS Neonatal Bilirubin – Pilot Study Analytes | |
|---|---|
| Direct Bilirubin | Total Bilirubin |
| Cat. Number | Kit Size | Parameters | |
|---|---|---|---|
| RQ9191 | 2 x 3ml | 2 |
RIQAS Cytokines – Pilot Study
This is a comprehensive EQA programme suitable for monitoring the performance of 12 different Cytokines including Interleukin 6 (IL-6), Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) and more.
Key Benefits
- Lyophilised samples for enhanced stability
- Submit results and view reports online via RIQAS.net
- Samples are manufactured to the highest quality ensuring the matrix reacts in the same manner as patients sample.
- All samples should be analysed and results submitted together
| RIQAS Cytokines – Pilot Study Analytes | ||
|---|---|---|
| Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) | Interleukin-2 (IL-2) | Interleukin-10 (IL-10) |
| Interferon gamma (INF-Y) | Interleukin-4 (IL-4) | Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1) |
| Interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1α) | Interleukin-6 (IL-6) | Tumour Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-α) |
| Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) | Interleukin-8 (IL-8) | Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) |
| Cat. Number | Kit Size | Parameters | |
|---|---|---|---|
| RQ9195 | 3 x 1ml | 12 |
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Randox International Quality Assessment Scheme (RIQAS)
RIQAS is the world’s largest External Quality Assessment scheme with more than 50,000 laboratory participants spanning over 139 countries
Key Benefits of RIQAS
Cost Effective
Consolidate EQA analysis, reduce workload and costs with our comprehensive, multi-parameter programmes.
Flexible Programme Options
Flexible programme options are available to suit all laboratory budgets. The option to register up to five instruments per programme (volume permitting) at no extra cost for comparative performance assessment
Highly Accredited
RIQAS programmes are accepted by national and international accreditation bodies including ISO 17043:2010 – “Conformity Assessment – General Requirements for Proficiency Testing”.
Expansive Peer Group Database
The availability of large peer groups ensures robust data is available for a wide range of instruments and methods.
Rapid, User-Friendly Reports
Our rapid, user-friendly reports allow at-a-glance performance assessment. Complimentary multi-instrument, inter-laboratory and end-of-cycle reports are also available.
Commutable Samples
A commutable sample matrix increases confidence that performance mimics that of patient samples.
Early Identification of Test System Errors
Frequent reporting allows early identification of test system errors, while our 72 hour report turnaround enables corrective action to be taken with minimum disruption to the lab.
Convenient Cloud Based Data System
RIQAS.net is a convenient, cloud based data entry system which allows participants to return results and view reports online.
Highest Quality Samples with Multi-Level Capabilities
EQA samples are manufactured to the highest quality standard and span clinically relevant levels.
RIQAS EQA Programmes
Choice & flexibility are guaranteed with our 33 programme portfolio.
Browse the programmes below
RIQAS EQA Reports
User-friendly, one-page per parameter reports allow for at-a-glance performance assessment.
Browse the reports below.
What Does RIQAS Provide?
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Acusera 24.7 – Interlaboratory Data Management Reporting Software
Acusera 24•7 is a live, cloud based interlaboratory data management and peer group reporting software, intended to assist in the management of daily QC activities.
Designed to complement our range of Acusera true third party controls.
Key Benefits of Acusera 24•7
Peer Group Statistics
Updated live in real-time, labs can compare statistics to their peers and identify any unique or widespread issues to help reduce time and money spent on troubleshooting.
Fully Interactive Charts
Ability to compare performance, assess trends and monitor performance with automatically generated Levey-Jennings, Histograms and Performance Summary Charts.
Highly Flexible
Labs can configure their own performance limits, multi-rules, consensus groups and target values for each instrument or lot of QC.
Unique Dashboard Interface
Reduce time spent analysing data as instant identification of any QC failures over the past 7 days and alerts of product expiry are highlighted in the unique dashboard design.
Comprehensive Reports
Comprehensive, easy-to-read and customisable reports have been designed to speed up the review process and include Statistical Metrics, Uncertainty of Measurement, Exception, Audit Trail & more.
24/7 Access
Gain access to this cloud-based software at anytime, anywhere. Removing the need installation, software maintenance and frequent back-ups.
Advanced Statistical Analysis
Automatically calculating advanced statistics including %Bias, Total Error and Sigma Metrics helps enhance performance assessment, improve QC strategy, and meet regulatory requirements.
Automated Data Import
Upload QC data directly to Acusera 24•7 via LIMS and middleware. This automated function eliminates the need for manual data entry and helps save money whilst increasing efficiency.
Technical Support
Expert technical support is available for users. Laboratories can access this service for troubleshooting purposes and therefore eliminates the need for on-site assistance.
What does Acusera 24•7 provide?
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Acusera 24.7 Software Update
The latest update of Acusera 24.7 has officially launched, allowing RX Imola, RX Modena and RX Daytona+ users to import compatible QC data files from a configured analyser to Acusera
Acusera 24•7 | Update Features
Our brand new Acusera 24.7 video is here! Take a look now
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Contact us or download our Acusera 24.7 brochure today.
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Quality Controls
Acusera 24.7 Software Update
The latest update of Acusera 24.7 allows RX Imola, Modena and Daytona+ users to import compatible QC files from a configured analyser to Acusera 24.7 without the need for manipulation. This new functionality eliminates the need for manual data entry, therefore effectively reducing the risk of transcription errors whilst speeding up the reporting process.
Acusera 24•7 | Update Features
Our brand new Acusera 24.7 video is here! Take a look now
Want to know more?
Contact us or download our Acusera 24.7 brochure today.
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Quality Controls
RIQAS Past Panels
RIQAS (Randox International Quality Assessment Scheme) is the largest global EQA scheme with over 50,000 participants in more than 139 countries. Our range currently comprises 33 programmes and the majority of clinical testing.
What are RIQAS Past Panels?
Available Panels
• Ammonia/ Ethanol
• Anti-TSH Receptor
• Blood Gas
• BNP
• Cardiac
• Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
• Clinical Chemistry
• Coagulation
• CO-Oximetry
• CYFRA 21-1
• ESR
• Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c)
• Haematology
• Human Urine
• Immunoassay
• Immunoassay Speciality 1
• Immunoassay Speciality 2
• Immunosuppressant Drugs
• Lipid
• Liquid Cardiac
• Maternal Screening
• Serology Epstein Barr Virus (EBV)
• Serology (HIV/ Hepatitis)
• Serology (Syphilis)
• Serology (ToRCH)
• Specific Proteins
• Sweat Testing
• Therapeutic Drugs
• Trace Elements in Blood
• Trace Elements in Serum
• Trace Elements in Urine
• Urinalysis
• Urine Toxicology
*Product availability is dependent on RIQAS stock surplus levels.
Benefits of RIQAS Past Panels
All RIQAS Past Panels are provided with an Excel document containing supporting data for the instrument and method of interest.
RIQAS Past Panel samples span multiple levels, making them ideal for ensuring accurate instrument performance across the measuring range.
RIQAS Past Panels allow laboratories to receive comprehensive external QC reports even after program close.
Interlaboratory Data Management – July 2019
Acusera 24•7 Live Online is an interlaboratory data management and peer group reporting package complementing the Acusera range of true third party quality controls. Designed to assist in the management of daily QC activities, Acusera 24•7 Live Online will help to meet regulatory requirements, improve error detection, reduce false rejections and ensure accurate patient results.
Delivering an online platform for effective QC data management, our software provides unique access to instantly updated real-time peer group data, automatically generated QC statistics, QC multi-rules, interactive charts and comprehensive reports.
‘The laboratory shall have a procedure to prevent the release of patient results in the event of quality control failure. When the quality control rules are violated and indicate that examination results are likely to contain significant errors the results shall be rejected… Quality Control data shall be reviewed at regular intervals to detect trends in examination performance’.
ISO 15189:2012
Why implement an interlaboratory program?
Acusera 24•7 Live Online is an essential QC tool for laboratories of all sizes. By participating and implementing our software your laboratory will be able to do the following;
- Quickly identify trends, system errors and reagent issues, minimising expensive repeat tests
- Automatically calculate Measurement Uncertainty, Total Error and Sigma Metrics
- Bridge the gap between daily quality control and external quality assessment
- Improve EQA performance by eliminating any undetected bias
- Facilitate regulatory compliance
- Minimise false rejections through the use of QC multi-rules
- Increase confidence in assigned QC target values
- Speed up troubleshooting processes, shortening delays in reporting
Acusera 24•7 key features and benefits
Peer group statistics are now uniquely updated live in real-time ensuring immediate access to the most up to date information available while ultimately reducing time and money spent troubleshooting, re-running samples and performing instrument maintenance. Peer groups may be based on worldwide statistics or an affiliate group of laboratories meaning you can instantly discover how you compare to other laboratories using the same lot of QC and identify if issues are unique to your laboratory or a widespread problem.
Available at no extra cost the unique dashboard allows instant identification of any QC failures and from the last seven days. Designed to significantly reduce the time spent analysing data, this highly convenient and user-friendly function means corrective action can be taken immediately with minimum disruption to the laboratory’s output. Alerts are also provided when a control lot is reaching expiry, reducing the risk of using expired material.
Levey-Jennings, Histogram and Performance Summary Charts are generated on demand, delivering quick and easy performance monitoring. With Acusera 24•7 Live Online, users have the ability to add multiple instruments, parameters and lots to a single chart allowing comparative performance assessment and immediate visualisation of any ongoing or emerging trends.
The user-friendly interface and interactive nature of the chart allows you to view data for a specific date range, zoom in on a specific data point, comment on individual data points and record events including calibration and reagent lot changes for enhanced review of trends.
Our software now automatically calculates %Bias, Total Error and Sigma metrics, enabling enhanced performance assessment and improved QC strategy design for your laboratory. The added benefit of Uncertainty of Measurement (UM) helps to meet ISO 15189 requirements. In addition results may be rejected or alerted based on QC multi-rules or user defined performance limits including Rilibak, CLIA and biological variation.
The Acusera Advisor tool will conveniently recommend a set of QC multi-rules and a minimum QC frequency for each assay based on previous performance history. Tailoring QC multi-rules to each assay in this way will make QC processes more efficient whilst ensuring high error detection rates.
Designed to help speed up the review process a range of comprehensive reports are available including, Statistical Metrics Reports, Uncertainty of Measurement Report, Exception Report, and the Audit Trail Report which provides a secure, electronic record of the creation, modification and deletion of data. This effective method of documenting the review process can help laboratories meet regulatory requirements and gain accreditation.
Evaluate and review any poor performing QC tests
The Data Review report displays data for all QC tests which have fallen outside your laboratory’s user-defined performance limits. Data may be filtered by date, instrument, lot number or rule violation. It may also be filtered to display only alerted/rejected results. The report can be exported or printed easily, to document the review process.
As always, results are colour-coded for added convenience. Once results have been evaluated, managers can record their actions by marking each result as ‘reviewed’. A ‘reviewed’ result will no longer appear on the Dashboard.
Our fully automated connectivity solution is designed to meet the needs of all laboratory types and sizes. QC data can be quickly and efficiently imported from LIMS to Acusera 24•7 Live Online without the need to import files or manually enter data.
- Reduce workload by eliminating issues associated with manual data entry
- Increases productivity and efficiency
- Captures and imports only QC data
- Secure real-time connection without disruption to the laboratory
- The software is also capable of bi-directional communication with LIMS
RIQAS Serology Report
The Serology report is available within ten days of the final submission date. The results for each parameter are displayed on a single page report. There are two types of Serology report – one for qualitative reporting and one for quantitative reporting. Each of these report ensure quick and easy performance assessment.
RIQAS EQA Reports
The Qualitative report comprises three subsections including a text section, Histogram and method summary. The text section conveniently displays your laboratory’s result to the correct result for your method. The Histogram visually displays your laboratory’s result in relation to all of the results submitted for your method group and the all method group. Finally, the method summary provides a breakdown of the results for all methods registered with RIQAS.
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The Quantitative report comprises four subsections including a text section, Histogram, Levey-Jennings chart and method summary. The text section conveniently displays your laboratory’s result to the mean for comparison, the histogram visually displays your laboratory’s result to the mean for comparison, the Levey-Jennings chart displays the SD for the last 20 samples ensuring instant identification of performance over time and finally the method summary provides a breakdown of the results submitted for all methods registered with RIQAS.
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RIQAS Urinalysis Report
RIQAS Urinalysis reports have been designed specifically for participants of the RIQAS Urinalysis programme (RQ9138). Report features include;
- Scoring system
- Ability to rate performance and visualise historical performance data
- Visual representation of performance
- Peer group comparison levels
To find out more on the range of features available with the report, see the table below.
RIQAS EQA Reports
The Urinalysis Report scoring system, scores participants based on a spread of results over each category and how far a participant is away from the consensus, which is referred to as the Target Category.
The score calculated is based on how close to the target category a participant’s result falls. A score of 0 refers to a result which falls within the target category and therefore, the comment “acceptable” will be given. A laboratory’s performance is described as being acceptable or unacceptable based on this calculated score.
A laboratory must achieve a score of between -6 and +6 for their performance to be deemed acceptable. Scores can fall between the values of -10 and +8.
- If a participant’s result matches the target category then they will receive the score of 0 and the comment “acceptable” given.
- Where a participant returns a negative result and the target category is positive (category 9), the participant score will be -10. The comment “unacceptable” will be given.
- Where a participant returns a positive result (category 9) and the target category is negative, the participant score will be +8 and the comment “unacceptable” given.
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Current Sample
The score achieved for the current reported sample together with the associated comment of acceptable, unacceptable or borderline will be listed in the comments box located towards the top of the results page for each registered parameter. The percentage (%) of results from the selected peer group which fall within the target category are also stated.
Potential Historical Information
The number of correct scores (i.e. scores of 0) that have been submitted in the last “n” samples, up to a maximum of 6 previous samples. The number of acceptable assessments that have been submitted in the last “n” samples, up to a maximum of 6 previous samples.
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Charting of Current & Historical Information
Results of scoring for each sample are displayed on a Levey-Jennings style chart with “0” score in the middle and scoring categories positioned on either side for 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10. The chart is shaded into bands depending on the scores.
Acceptable scores (0-6) have no shading, Borderline scores (6-8) have light red shading and unacceptable scores (8-10) are shaded a darker red.
Scores for each of the last 12 samples are plotted against the appropriate sample number and the chart also indicates whether the participant’s reported result category is higher or lower than the target category.
The target categories are stated along the top of the chart and if there are no target categories due to a lack of numbers then an “X” is plotted to show that a result has been submitted but could not be scored.
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Reporting – Summary Page
The summary page at the end of the report lists all of the parameters that a participant has registered for.
For each parameter the following information is stated:
- Target Category, which is dependent on the unit registered
- The result which has returned by the participant
- The score achieved for the current sample
- The comment of Acceptable / Unacceptable / Borderline
- Where the comment is “Unacceptable” it is highlighted in bold italics and underlined
- The number of “Acceptable” assessments that have been achieved over the previous 6 samples
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RIQAS Urine Toxicology Report
A dedicated report is provided for the Urine Toxicology programme. The report is divided into two subsections; the screening (qualitative) and the quantitative section, allowing for visual performance assessment at-a-glance.
RIQAS EQA Reports
Your laboratory’s result is displayed along with the correct response. A visual chart is also provided displaying performance of the last 20 samples. A breakdown of the screening results submitted by other laboratories in your method group and all method groups for the current sample is also provided at a variety of cut-offs. A further breakdown is provided for various methods at your specific cut-off.
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The Quantitative section of the Urine Toxicology report is further broken down into a text section comparing your laboratory’s performance to the mean for comparison, a Histogram chart indicating your laboratory’s performance in relation to the method group and the all method group and a multi-method section highlighting the performance of other methods.
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