The Role of External Quality Assessment (EQA) in Laboratory Services

External quality assessment (EQA) is an important
tool in laboratory services, ensuring the accuracy,
reliability, and consistency of diagnostic test
results. In an EQA program, an external body
distributes unknown samples to participating
laboratories, which analyze them and report
their results for comparison with those of peer
institutions. This process enables laboratories
to identify errors, monitor performance trends,
and implement corrective measures. This article
outlines the concept, process, importance, and
challenges of EQA and highlights its role in
supporting patient safety and healthcare quality.