The EPTC has started a register of EPT programs. H&I EPT Providers were requested to register on the EFI database. This registration established a list giving an overview of EPT programs for H&I laboratories. The list is updated at regular time intervals.
The EFI Standards in version 7.0 comprise a separate Section D (External Proficiency Testing) containing the EPT Standards for H&I laboratories. These Standards are reviewed at least annually by the EPTC for updates. In addition, the EPTC has formulated the Standards for EPT Providers which are also updated at regular time intervals.
The EPTC provides assistance and education for developing EPT programs. A special focus lies on the regions lacking EPT schemes which are mandatory for EFI accreditation. In such exceptional cases labs may organize inter-laboratory exchanges of samples to check if they perform H&I diagnostics in a comparable manner.
The EPTC has created a Manual for inter-laboratory exchanges (which can be downloaded here).
A special “Meet the EPT Experts” session as part of the annual EFI conference is organized by the EPTC. In this session all regional EPT representatives are present for discussion with the audience. Topics of special interest for the EPT in H&I field will be addressed.
For additional information/consultation please contact the EPT Committee Chair.