Insights

Implementing a laboratory quality management system can seem a daunting project. Learn how you can deliver consistent, high-quality, and cost-effective laboratory services by participating CLSI’s updated Laboratory Quality Management System (LQMS) Certificate Program.

Most laboratories use methods such as QC, equipment calibration measurement, QA measurements of process performance, and more recently, implementation of a quality management system, to determine the quality of examination results and laboratory services.

Implementing a quality management system (QMS) can help a laboratory run more efficiently by reducing costs and nonconformances. Most importantly, in the US, a QMS is a requirement under CLIA regulations for passing and maintaining accreditation.

September is Newborn Screening Awareness Month. 2020’s theme is “Expect newborn screening.” Newborn screening is a state public health service that reaches each of the nearly 4 million babies born in the United States each year. It ensures that all babies are screened for certain serious conditions at birth and for those babies with those conditions, it allows doctors to start treatment before some of the harmful effects happen.

World Patient Safety Day is celebrated on September 17. This year WHO will launch a global campaign emphasizing health worker safety as a prerequisite for patient safety and urging people to show their commitment to make health care safer for everyone. Health Worker Safety: A Priority for Patient Safety has been selected as the theme for this year. The 2020 theme will be promoted through the slogan “Safe health workers, Safe patients.”

As DNA sequence- and MALDI-TOF-based identification of yeasts becomes widespread, we have learned much about the prevalence of cryptic species within species complexes.

Robert Bowden, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA Claire Burbick, Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Lab, Washington State University, Pullman, MA