Consolidation of quality control material improves patient safety and supports sustainability

Abstract Objectives Quality control measurements are a keystone in daily routine laboratory workflows. This study evaluated the use of a consolidated quality control material for increasing efficiency while also reducing costs. Methods Quality control materials from two different manufacturers were chosen to evaluate efficiency in a test setting. A total of 23 clinical chemistry tests and 15 immunoassays were performed twice each day under routine conditions over a 10-day time period using an Abbott Alinity system. Results The data obtained showed a saving of between 40 and 100% depending on test criteria. The cost savings in waste reduction ranges between a factor of 5.4 for dead volume to 19.8 for consumables. No difference in quality performance were found. Conclusions Choosing a consolidated quality control material resulted in a higher efficiency, greater cost savings and higher sustainability while maintaining the same level of performance.