Requirements for quality control, external quality assurance and method evaluation (Sixth Edition 2018)

This document was published by the National Pathology Accreditation Advisory Council (NPAAC) whilst under the governance of the Department of Health and Aged Care. From 1 July 2021, the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (the Commission) assumed responsibility for coordinating the National Pathology Accreditation (NPA) Scheme and supporting the development of the pathology accreditation standards.

Requirements for quality control, external quality assurance and method evaluation (Sixth Edition 2018) is currently in use.

The Commission is undergoing a review process for each of the pathology standards. To remain up to date on upcoming consultations and to provide input, please visit the pathology accreditation standards and sign up now for ongoing updates.

For enquiries about the NPA Scheme or the resources, email pathology@safetyandquality.gov.au.

The Requirements for Quality Control, External Quality Assurance and Method Evaluation outlines the general features that an internal quality control system and an external quality assessment program must have in order to provide an effective monitoring strategy for the various pathology disciplines. This document also provides guidance on method evaluation for laboratories.

The Requirements reflect a risk based approach to the accreditation framework, with primary consideration given to ensuring patient welfare through the interrelationship and contemporary practice of Quality Control, Internal Quality Assurance and External Quality Assurance.

This document must be read in conjunction with the Tier 2 document - Requirements for Medical Pathology Services.