The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) has published an updated version of its resource for implementing a quality management system (QMS)—The Key to Quality. This workbook includes fundamental information needed to implement, manage, and sustain a QMS. It is intended to help laboratories meet accreditation quality requirements, encourage greater efficiency and productivity, and provide the highest quality test results.
The new version features ready-to-use templates that allow laboratories to implement their own customized QMS. It includes updated examples and a QMS slide presentation that can be used to introduce laboratory workers to the CLSI QMS. The Key to Quality introduces users to a technique called “gap analysis,” which identifies the aspects of a QMS that a laboratory already has in place and indicates additions that are needed to create a customized implementation plan. The workbook includes gap analysis tools specific to each quality system essential (QSE), as well as an electronic application to assist laboratories in calculating their own gap analysis score.
CLSI also offers learning opportunities for QMS implementation through its new Laboratory Quality Management System (LQMS) Certificate Program. This online, self-paced distance learning course is intended to provide the comprehensive education needed to meet accreditation quality requirements, and features case studies for each QSE. Learn more about services and solutions provided by CLSI.
