Joint Commission updates lab proficiency testing requirements

Beginning January 1, 2025, The Joint Commission will implement new accreditation requirements for laboratories in response to evolving practices and technological advancements. These changes align with the updated proficiency testing analytes and performance standards outlined in the revised Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA).

Important updates to the accreditation requirements will include:

• Laboratories must report proficiency testing results for microbiology organism identification at the highest level that corresponds to patient specimen results,
• The satisfactory performance threshold for unexpected antibody detection will increase from 80 percent to 100 percent, and
• Clarifications will be provided regarding tests included in the ban on improper proficiency testing referrals. 

According to the Joint Commission, a new Appendix E will be added to the Comprehensive Accreditation Manual for Laboratories (CAMLAB) to capture additional information related to the updated regulations and revised requirements. More information is also available on the Joint Commission’s Prepublication Standards webpage.

Our team of experienced lawyers and professionals at Norton Rose Fulbright will continue to follow updates from The Joint Commission. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.