title: Proficiency testing as a regulatory device: a CAP perspective.
abstract: The history and development of the proficiency testing programs of the College of American Pathologists are reviewed. Important considerations of external surveys include target value assignment and determination of acceptable ranges. "Blind" proficiency testing and on-site evaluation provide alternative methods of laboratory evaluation but are limited by practical logistics.
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of Pathology, Seattle, WA 98104.
authors.forename: W
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Hamlin
mesh_terms: D002624:Chemistry, Clinical / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000592:standards*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D049673:History, 20th Century; D007753:Laboratories / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000592:standards*; D011786:Quality Control