Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) possesses a positive-sense single-stranded RNA genome. Mutations of this genome may occur over time, and while these changes are not unexpected, specific mutations may alter important characteristics of the virus. When viral genomic changes are associated with potential altered transmission, virulence, or vaccine efficacy, they may be identified as a particular SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Concern (VOC). Currently, there are three commonly discussed VOCs.

Authors: Elaine Leung, Anna Johnston, Brian Olsen, Hong Chang, Tracy Martin, Miranda Wozniak, David Good

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Examination of a blood film is the second most common hematology test, after the complete blood count. Interpretation of a peripheral blood film by trained laboratory professionals provides valuable diagnostic information. The Institute for Quality Management in Healthcare (IQMH) Hematology Scientific Committee developed a questionnaire to gather information regarding current practices for manual blood film review and reporting from laboratories participating in IQMH Morphology proficiency testing (PT) surveys.

As a participant in the Centre for Proficiency Testing, participants obtain exclusive access to PT Consensus Practice Recommendations and Reviews. These documents can be found in discipline-specific folders under General - Proficiency Testing, PT Guidelines and Recommendations in the IQMH Documents section in QView.™

Accredited medical laboratories are required to participate in formal interlaboratory comparison. The Centre for Accreditation monitors medical laboratory participation and performance in these schemes on an ongoing basis using QTrak™.

The IQMH Centre for Proficiency Testing is thrilled to announce the upcoming release of the IQMH Proficiency Testing 2021 catalogue this August. We’ve been working hard to ensure that the 2021 Proficiency Testing (PT) programs meet and exceed your laboratory’s needs.