Table 2 Examples of external quality assurance schemes for routine biomarkers employed in breast cancer pathology^a

ASCO/CAP

To improve the accuracy of test results and ensure that

patients receive appropriate care

http://www.cap.org/

http://www.cap.org/apps/cap.portal

UK NEQAS

To promote optimal patient care by facilitating the

availability of reliable laboratory investigations,

through provision of objective information on

participant performance and professional advice

and assistance where appropriate

http://www.ukneqas.org.uk/

NordiQC

To promote the quality of IHC by arranging schemes

for pathology laboratories, assessing tissue stains,

giving recommendations for improvement and

providing good protocols

http://www.nordiqc.org/

Canadian

external quality

assurance

program

To systematically monitor and improve the proficiency

of IHC testing laboratories and those involved with IHC

testing nationwide

http://www.ciqc.ca/

The RCPA

Quality

Assurance

Program

To provide external proficiency testing for

histopathology laboratories in the areas of diagnostic

and technical expertise

http://www.rcpaqap.com.au/