Welcome to the NICD Proficiency Testing Schemes

Proficiency Testing Schemes (PTS) are a type of External Quality Assessment (EQA), where the participating laboratories are sent samples (also known as challenges) with undisclosed results for analysis or identification. The results of all participants are assessed against the intended response, which may be verified by referee laboratories. Feedback is sent to each participant on their individual performance and on the general participant performance for that survey. EQA is a key element of a laboratory’s Quality Management System (QMS) and is compulsory for laboratories who seek accreditation.

This website covers the PTS that are coordinated by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD).