Performance Evaluation Program: Testing for Human
Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
CDC's Training and Laboratory Program Office (TLPO) is
implementing a program to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of
testing for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. This
program
is designed to serve as a model for the assessment of emerging
laboratory technologies.
The major objectives of the HIV Testing Performance Evaluation
Program are 1) to build a database of information that describes
the
testing practices and the physical and technical characteristics of
HIV testing laboratories, 2) to evaluate the quality of HIV
testing,
3) to establish an information exchange network, 4) to identify and
define problems in HIV testing, and 5) to improve and maintain the
quality of HIV testing.
To initiate the program, TLPO is sending an enrollment form to
laboratories that participated in CDC's earlier proficiency testing
program. However, enrollment in the program is open to all those
that
perform HIV testing and to manufacturers of HIV testing products.
Participation in the program, which is not intended to satisfy
regulatory requirements, is voluntary. To request an enrollment
form
and additional information, interested laboratories and
manufacturers
may telephone TLPO at (404) 329-1967 or write to Centers for
Disease
Control, Attention: Ms. Fern Lavinder, Training and Laboratory
Program
Office, DAMC, 24 Executive Park, E20, 1600 Clifton Road, NE,
Atlanta,
GA 30333. Reported by: Div of Assessment and Management
Consultation,
Training and Laboratory Program Office, CDC.
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