Quality indicators (QI) are used to systematically evaluate, control and improve laboratory performance.
They are measurable indicators that show whether quality systems (e.g. in accordance with ISO 15189) are being implemented effectively.
Examples of laboratory quality indicators
| Range | Example indicator |
| Preanalytics | Proportion of insufficient samples (haemolysis, coagulation) |
| Analytics | Rate of internal QC overruns |
| Postal analytics | Time until release of findings |
| Process quality | Success rate of passed EQA-Schemes |
| Customer satisfaction | Feedback from senders / clinics |
By regularly recording and analysing this data, laboratories can identify potential for improvement and ensure their quality in the long term.
RfB participation can be documented directly as quality indicators and verified as part of audits.
