Controllab

Controllab participates in the XIV Discussion In Laboratory Medicine

Bianca Martins — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:59:06 +0000

Event in Ecuador will bring together healthcare professionals to discuss personalized medicine, oncodiagnostics, and quality management

On April 24–25, 2026, the city of Quito, Ecuador, will host the XIV Discussion In Laboratory Medicine. Organized by AHK Ecuador, the event provides a scientific update environment focused on topics that are transforming healthcare, such as personalized medicine and oncological diagnostics.

The program includes relevant discussions for the clinical sector, covering laboratory medicine, cardiorenal metabolic syndrome, and challenges in laboratory routines, as well as technical content applied to professional practice.

Controllab at the event

Controllab will participate in the event as an exhibitor and as part of the scientific program. On April 25, Ana Paula Gomes, Supervisor of Accreditation and Indicators, will deliver the presentation: “Patient-Centered Quality Indicators, TAT, and Value-Based Laboratory Medicine”, featuring analyses and evidence generated through the Metricare data intelligence platform.

The presentation will offer key insights into the use of consolidated and anonymized benchmarking data to connect key indicators with the patient journey, highlighting impacts on turnaround times, safety, trust, and overall patient experience.

In addition to the presentation, Controllab will host a booth alongside its local partner, IQS Integral Quality Solutions, to engage with attendees, strengthen relationships, and expand its presence in the international market.

Integration of science, practice, and innovation in clinical diagnostics

Now in its 14th edition, the congress brings together specialists from various countries to discuss advancements in healthcare, with a focus on quality, patient safety, and professional excellence.

The event aims to integrate technical knowledge with laboratory practice, contributing to the continuous development of the sector and the evolution of diagnostic processes.

For more information and access to the full program, visit the event page.

Commitment to quality and laboratory reliability

Controllab’s presence reinforces its ongoing commitment to knowledge sharing and strengthening quality practices in the laboratory sector.
With over 48 years of experience, operations in more than 40 countries, and a portfolio of over 3,500 assays, the company provides solutions focused on continuous improvement in laboratories.

Among its key differentiators are proficiency testing and internal quality control programs, which support diagnostic safety and technical performance. Metricare also stands out as a platform for monitoring and benchmarking laboratory indicators, supporting strategic decision-making.

Learn more at controllab.com/en.

Controllab brings its expertise to clinical laboratory scientific events in Panama

Giselle Reis — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 13:05:26 +0000

Events bring together international experts to discuss technological advances, clinical diagnostics, digital transformation, and quality in laboratory medicine.

From April 22 to 24, 2026, Hospital Santo Tomás (HST), a leading public institution in Central America and the Caribbean, will host the II Congress and the XXIX Scientific Seminar on Clinical Laboratory in Panama.

Under the theme “La IA: Transformando la Medicina de Laboratorio”, the event will highlight how clinical laboratories are evolving in response to challenges driven by artificial intelligence. The objective is to promote a multidisciplinary approach that ensures quality of care, from research to clinical practice.

Controllab Participation

The company will take part in the event as an exhibitor and as part of the scientific program, with Dr. José Poloni, education manager, and technical support analyst Thamiris Aguiar.

On April 23, Dr. Poloni will present “Evaluación en el laboratorio de la función renal: aportes del uroanálisis”, highlighting the role of urinalysis in assessing renal function and diagnostic quality.

On April 24, Thamiris will deliver the presentation “Ensayos de aptitud con múltiples muestras: una estrategia para mayor confiabilidad y valor clínico”, focusing on strategies that enhance the reliability of analytical results.

For more information, visit the event page.

International Quality Symposium

Before the HST event, Controllab, together with local partner PROMED, will hold the International Quality Symposium on April 20 at 1:00 p.m. (Panama time) for the regional audience. The meeting will be online, free of charge, and conducted in spanish, bringing together leading professionals who will share trends and best practices for analytical quality.

To participate, access the link at the scheduled date and time.

Controllab’s participation in these initiatives reinforces its commitment to knowledge sharing, contributing to the strengthening of good laboratory practices and quality in healthcare services worldwide.

Watch the recording of the class on paraproteinemias and monoclonal gammopathies and strengthen your knowledge

Giselle Reis — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 13:00:12 +0000

The Online Meeting addressed laboratory practices aimed at promoting greater confidence in the interpretation of results.

The free class promoted by Controllab, “Paraproteinemias and Monoclonal Gammopathies: A Practical Laboratory Approach” is now available.

The session was delivered by Dr. Gustavo Loureiro, a clinical pathologist, PhD from UNIFESP, working in special biochemistry at Grupo Fleury, with extensive experience in monoclonal gammopathies, electrophoresis, immunofixation, and specialized medical consulting.

What was covered in the class?

During his presentation, Dr. Gustavo Loureiro discussed the challenges of laboratory investigation of paraproteinemias. He emphasized the importance of recognizing patterns in test results, selecting the most appropriate analyses, and interpreting findings in an integrated manner, always considering the limitations of each method.

The main tests used in this context were also presented, including serum and urine protein electrophoresis, immunofixation, free light chain measurement, and evaluation of Bence Jones proteinuria. Aspects related to sensitivity, limitations, and the rational combination of laboratory tests were also addressed.

The specialist also highlighted the recommendation to perform immunofixation whenever there is diagnostic uncertainty or suspicion of a monoclonal component in different regions of electrophoresis.

He further emphasized the importance of understanding the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and correlating laboratory findings with the clinical context. He also noted that the presence of a monoclonal component alone does not define a neoplastic disease.

Finally, mass spectrometry was cited as a promising technology for detecting monoclonal proteins with high sensitivity.

What do participants say about the class?

Participants highlighted the clarity and teaching approach of the training, along with relevant content. The practical focus facilitates application in routine laboratory work, contributing to safer decisions and improved processes.

Watch the recorded session

Access the recording here.

It is worth noting that live participation allows you to clarify questions about the topic and ensures your certificate of participation, which is essential for demonstrating professional development.

On the Online Meeting page, it is also possible to watch recordings of all classes promoted by Controllab.

Hemoparasitosis in animals: Watch the Recorded Class and Improve Your Diagnostic Interpretation

Bianca Martins — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 13:17:20 +0000

Controllab’s free training covered the identification of hemoparasites, blood smear analysis, and clinico-laboratory correlation in routine veterinary practice.

The interpretation of hemoparasitosis in animals remains one of the main challenges in veterinary clinical pathology. Careful examination of blood smears, combined with clinical data correlation, is essential for achieving an accurate diagnosis.

A well-analyzed smear can prevent errors, reduce rework, and support safer clinical decisions. Therefore, mastering this step is crucial in laboratory routines.

With this focus, Controllab hosted the Online Meeting “Diagnostic Investigation of Hemoparasitosis in Animals”, bringing together professionals seeking greater confidence in interpretation.

What Was Covered in the Class

Led by Dr. Aline Moreira de Souza — veterinarian, full professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at UFF, lecturer in Veterinary Clinical Pathology since 2009, and coordinator of LABHUVET/UFF since 2012 — the class presented a practical and up-to-date approach to the topic.

The content ranged from the main hemoparasites in animals to key aspects of pathophysiology, also covering:

Main hemoparasites, pathophysiology, clinical signs, and laboratory findings
Diagnostic methods and blood smear analysis
Advances in serological and molecular testing, highlighting their limitations
Proper interpretation of results, considering that IgG indicates prior exposure, not active infection
The importance of correlating clinical presentation, patient history, and laboratory tests for a reliable diagnosis

Practical Application: Why Does This Content Matter?

More than a review of concepts, the class reinforced the strategic role of the laboratory in clinical decision-making. Correct interpretation of results reduces uncertainty and increases the reliability of reports.

With a strong practical focus, participants understood how details directly impact diagnosis, contributing to safer and more accurate performance in routine veterinary practice.

Participants highlighted how the class addresses a real need in the field, bridging the gap between theory and practice in veterinary medicine.

Watch the full class now at the link.

It is worth noting that participating live in Online Meetings allows attendees to ask questions directly to the expert, enhancing learning outcomes. In addition, it provides a certificate of participation—an important record of your professional development.

On the Online Meeting page, you can also access recordings of other classes offered by Controllab. Take the opportunity to explore more content.

Controllab takes part in the international conference on new trends in microbial identification

Giselle Reis — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 13:07:17 +0000

The meeting will bring together national and international experts to share scientific updates.

From April 14 to 17, Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil, will host the International Conference on New Trends in Microbial Identification. Focused on the theme “Use of MALDI-TOF MS, FT-IR and Molecular Biology/LAMP”, the event aims to foster exchanges among specialists to discuss advances and challenges in microorganism characterization and identification.

The program brings together researchers and professionals from Brazil and abroad to share experiences, update knowledge, and strengthen technical and scientific dialogue in the field.

Controllab joins the scientific program

Controllab is supporting the event and is part of the scientific program. On April 15, Microbiology Manager Shirley Lima will present the lecture “MALDI-TOF and Proficiency Testing: Analytical Accuracy Under New Microbial Challenges.”

The presentation will address how external evaluation of microorganisms has revealed difficulties in identification. The results highlight the need for updated databases and reinforce the importance of interlaboratory monitoring to enhance diagnostic reliability.

Organized by leading institutions

The conference features renowned experts, including Dr. Nelson Lima from the University of Minho (Portugal), one of the event’s presidents and current president of the World Federation for Culture Collections (WFCC).

The event is organized by Soluções para Eventos Científicos (SEC), the Micoteca of the University of Minho (MUM), and the Agricultural Research Company of Minas Gerais (EPAMIG), combining different areas of expertise to deliver the conference.

For more information and registration, visit the event page.

Commitment to laboratory quality and reliability

Controllab’s participation reinforces its ongoing role in knowledge sharing and in strengthening quality practices in the laboratory sector.

With more than 48 years of experience, operations in over 40 countries, and a portfolio of more than 3,500 assays, the company serves different segments with solutions that promote reliable results. These include reference strains (strains control) recognized as Certified Reference Materials.

Controllab is accredited as a Reference Material Producer (PMR 0009) by the General Coordination for Accreditation of Inmetro and licensed by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for the NCTC® and NCPF® collections.

NCTC® has technical equivalence to ATCC®, according to the World Data Center for Microorganisms, with the same phenotypic characteristics and genotyping. It is globally recognized by technical protocols and accreditation bodies.

For more information, visit: controllab.com

Phytobacter: Misidentification Can Mask a Clinically Relevant Pathogen

Giselle Reis — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 12:16:20 +0000

External Quality Assessment Exercise Highlights the Limits of Automation and the Microbiologist’s Role in Safe Diagnosis

Clinical microbiology is in a constant state of evolution, and the genus Phytobacter illustrates how a microorganism can remain under the radar of laboratories for years. Phenotypically similar to Pantoea, Kluyvera, and Enterobacter, it was long misclassified. Only with advances in genomic tools has it become possible to recognize its true significance as an opportunistic pathogen.

Historical evidence shows that sepsis outbreaks in the United States in the 1970s and in Brazil in 1997, 2000, 2010, and 2013—initially attributed to Enterobacter agglomerans or Pantoea spp.—were in fact caused by Phytobacter diazotrophicus. Revisiting these cases raised a red flag about the overreliance on automated identification systems or manual methods using outdated databases, without critical analysis by the microbiologist.

This story is revisited in a documentary that examines the Brazilian outbreak and the process of re-evaluating the isolates, featuring expert testimonies and behind-the-scenes insights into the investigation that led to the pathogen’s reclassification.

From the Environment to the Hospital

Originally found in soil and plant microbiomes, Phytobacter fits within the One Health framework. Its adaptability allows it to persist in hospital environments, particularly in water systems and intravenous solutions. Biofilm formation resistant to chlorination facilitates its spread and increases risk for immunocompromised patients.

Moreover, recent clinical isolates have shown high-impact resistance genes, including blaKPC, blaNDM-1, and blaIMP, often carried on mobile plasmids. This profile positions the genus as a potential reservoir of antimicrobial resistance, with direct implications for therapy and infection control.

What the Quality Exercise Revealed in Practice

In an External Quality Assessment (AEQ) conducted by Controllab in partnership with Lacen/PR, an anonymized sample containing Phytobacter diazotrophicus was sent to hundreds of laboratories. Most participants misidentified the microorganism as Pantoea spp., particularly when using automated systems based on biochemical panels with outdated databases.

The error is not merely taxonomic. It can lead to underestimating clinical risk, hinder outbreak detection, and influence therapeutic decisions. MALDI-TOF platforms with updated databases performed better, underscoring the importance of keeping these tools current.

Detailed results of this exercise are presented in a new technical publication (Laes & Haes, issue 279, p. 72–84), including a comparative analysis of identification methods and implications for routine laboratory practice.

Automation Requires a Critical Eye

Automation has undeniably advanced microbiology, but the data show it cannot replace expert interpretation. Inconsistent profiles—such as isolates identified as Pantoea with a positive indole test or an identification probability below 98%—should be treated as warning signs.

For Dr. Marcelo Pillonetto, scientist at the Laboratório Central do Paraná (Lacen/PR) and professor at PUCPR, the case of Phytobacter illustrates a growing challenge. “Relying solely on equipment results can mask clinically relevant pathogens. Integration of automation, updated MALDI-TOF, and critical microbiologist analysis is what ensures a safe and actionable diagnosis for the clinical team,” he says.

Pathways to Risk Reduction

Experts highlight priority actions for laboratories:

• Periodic updates of automated system and MALDI-TOF databases;
• Critical review of isolates from sterile sites identified as Pantoea spp.;
• Use of molecular methods for confirmation in critical cases;
• Ongoing training in taxonomy and microbiological interpretation.

Accurate Diagnosis Means Patient Safety

The high rate of misidentification of Phytobacter diazotrophicus reveals a real risk for epidemiological surveillance and patient care. Recognizing this pathogen goes beyond taxonomic discussion: it strengthens infection control, guides therapeutic decisions, and helps monitor the advance of antimicrobial resistance in today’s clinical laboratory landscape.

Metricare Certificate recognizes laboratories with indicator-based management

Bianca Martins — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 12:00:38 +0000

Institutions use laboratory indicators and benchmarking to monitor processes and support patient safety.

More than 200 laboratories participating in Metricare were certified in 2025. The recognition highlights organizations that use laboratory indicators to track the performance of their processes.

The Metricare Certificate is issued by Controllab, with the support of the SBPC/ML – Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine, and demonstrates participation in initiatives focused on monitoring and comparing indicators among laboratories.

Laboratory indicators in routine operations

Through the Metricare platform, laboratories monitor indicators and track their evolution over time. These include: recollection (repeat sample collection), technical staff productivity, delays in result delivery, incorrect reports, average ticket, and performance in Proficiency Testing programs.

Analyzing these data allows organizations to identify improvement opportunities by comparing their results with those of other participating institutions.

Recognition and institutional positioning

The Metricare Certificate also contributes to the institutional positioning of participating laboratories by highlighting the adoption of practices focused on indicator monitoring.
This movement is aligned with regulatory guidelines in the sector, which reinforces the importance of quality management, traceability, and the comparison of indicators in laboratory services.

To support this communication, Controllab provides a dedicated page with guidelines and communication suggestions on how to use the certificate.

Participation in indicator initiatives is growing in the sector

The adoption of laboratory indicators and benchmarking practices has grown in recent years, reflecting institutions’ pursuit of greater efficiency in their processes.

In this context, initiatives like Metricare expand access to comparative data and contribute to the consolidation of indicator-based management in the sector. Learn more at www.metricare.com.br.

Harmonization of Laboratory Indicators: International Study Examines Cross-Country Comparability Challenges

Giselle Reis — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:35:50 +0000

A publication in Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine brings together international experts and includes participation from Controllab.

Amid efforts to harmonize data and improve indicator comparability in laboratory medicine, experts in laboratory medicine have examined the challenges involved in standardizing quality indicators used by clinical laboratories across different countries. The analysis was presented in a Letter to the Editor published in the scientific journal Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM), of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM).

The publication brings together representatives from the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC), the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML), and Controllab.

The authors include Dr. Mario Plebani and Dr. Vincent de Guire, representing the IFCC, as well as Dr. Wilson Shcolnik and Dr. Alex Galoro from SBPC/ML. All are members of the Working Group on Laboratory Errors and Patient Safety (WG LEPS) of the IFCC, coordinated by Dr. Vincent de Guire. Within the group, Controllab is represented by Luiza Bottino.

Analysis of Laboratory Indicators Across Countries

This work is part of a WG LEPS project focused on defining quality specifications for laboratory indicators using a meta-analysis approach. Data from laboratory indicator programs in Brazil, China, Argentina, and Spain were analyzed, along with data from the IFCC itself.

Although international initiatives have established harmonized definitions for quality indicators, the study highlights methodological differences in how these indicators are calculated, aggregated, and reported. Advancing the harmonization of these methods is an important step toward further enhancing the comparability of laboratory indicator programs. One example highlighted is the “Sample Coagulation” indicator.

Comparability and Benchmarking Challenges

According to the authors, this heterogeneity limits international comparability across laboratory indicator programs and may hinder the development of robust global benchmarks. The publication also underscores the need for standardization in stratification criteria, data aggregation methods, and reporting frameworks.

Controllab’s participation in the study reinforces its commitment to quality, methodological innovation, and the strengthening of benchmarking programs aimed at continuous improvement and patient safety on a global scale.

Access the full publication on the website:
https://www.degruyterbrill.com/document/doi/10.1515/cclm-2026-0076/html

Mpox: reliability of results in routine laboratory practice

Giselle Reis — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:02:18 +0000

With the recent attention to cases in Brazil, the situation brings greater focus to the analytical process.

Mpox, caused by the MPXV virus, continues to be monitored by health authorities and the scientific community. In this context, laboratory diagnosis plays a key role in identifying cases, guiding investigations, and helping to interrupt transmission chains.

In practice, detection is primarily carried out using molecular biology methods. Beyond choosing the methodology, day-to-day operations involve critical factors such as analytical performance, risk of contamination, and the integrity and stability of samples and reagents.

In routine practice, these variations can occur subtly and may not always be noticed. Small fluctuations throughout the process, when monitored through controls, help maintain result consistency—especially in scenarios that demand fast and reliable responses.

Practical monitoring

In this context, Controllab offers the Mpox – Molecular Biology program.

The program includes Proficiency Testing (PT), also known as External Quality Control. In this process, laboratories receive lyophilized test items prepared from viral isolates with a complete genome, allowing them to assess the accuracy of their methods in identifying the microorganism.

It also includes Internal Quality Control (IQC), focused on the continuous monitoring of routine analytical performance.

The internal controls provided are third-party controls, manufactured by independent producers rather than the analytical system manufacturer, supporting a more objective evaluation. In addition, they include interlaboratory results across different systems, broadening the perspective on routine performance.

With this combined approach, laboratories gain greater visibility into their processes and strengthen the reliability of results in virus detection.

The next Proficiency Testing round, conducted in accordance with ISO/IEC 17043, will take place in April—an opportunity to observe, in practice, how routine analytical processes perform. For more information, contact a Controllab specialist.

Global Quality, Local Practice: What the IFCC Meeting Brings to the Daily Routine of Laboratories

Bianca Martins — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 13:18:37 +0000

Reflections from the international workshop highlight how continuous education, internal control, and external assessment support safer decision-making in laboratory routine.

The recent meeting promoted by the IFCC – International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine – and its Task Force on Global Laboratory Quality (TF-GLQ) in Montevideo brought together specialists and professionals to discuss practical pathways to laboratory quality. The discussions addressed management, internal quality control, external quality assessment, and indicators, always with a focus on the practical application of these concepts in daily laboratory operations.

More than presenting technical recommendations, the event underscored a central point: international standards gain meaning when they engage with the local context. Laboratories in different countries face similar challenges, such as properly interpreting analytical performance, standardizing processes, and transforming data into improvement actions.

Quality as a Daily Commitment

One of the most recurring messages was that quality is not sustained solely by documents or regulatory requirements. It depends on continuous team learning and the consistent use of tools that support safe decision-making. Internal quality control and external quality assessment programs were highlighted as allies in identifying opportunities and reducing uncertainty.

Bridges Between the Global and the Local

The meeting featured high-level presentations delivered by three members of the TF-GLQ: Dr. Ivan Blasutig, Prof. Qing Meng, and Dr. José Poloni, Educational Manager at Controllab, along with two highly respected local representatives: Q.F., B.C. Beatriz Varela and Q.F., B.C. Ana Piana.

The combined expertise of these professionals provided participants with valuable insights into international standards and best practices, as well as approaches adapted to the Uruguayan context. This integration of global and local perspectives enriched the discussions and ensured that the content was both relevant and applicable to everyday laboratory activities.

What Laboratories Take into Practice

The key takeaway from the meeting was straightforward: quality is a living process. It is strengthened by the effective use of indicators, participation in comparative programs, and investment in people. By connecting global trends to daily practice, the sector enhances the reliability of results and the quality of patient care.

More details about the initiative are available in issue № 1/2 – January/February 2026 eNews, da International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine.

The 2025 Proficiency Certificate highlights confidence in the results

admincontrollab — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 16:20:23 +0000

Controllab recognition highlights high standards of analytical quality.

The reliability of results is built every day. It depends on well-defined processes, continuous monitoring, and a permanent commitment to analytical quality.

In this context, Controllab clients have already received the 2025 Proficiency Certificate, a recognition granted to those who participated in Proficiency Testing (PT) programs throughout the period and achieved the expected analytical performance. More than a technical document, the certification conveys to the market the seriousness with which these organizations conduct their analytical routines.

Independent assessment that underpins quality

Proficiency Testing — also known as External Quality Assessment (EQA) — provides an independent reference for monitoring analytical performance. Through scheduled rounds, organizations analyze control samples and have their results evaluated based on previously defined technical criteria.

Comparison with other participants and careful data analysis make it possible to identify deviations, correct failures, support technical decisions, and strengthen compliance with regulatory and normative requirements. This process directly contributes to continuous improvement and to the safety of the services provided.

A certification recognized by the sector

The 2025 Proficiency Certificate covers national and international organizations in the clinical, veterinary, microbiology, hemotherapy, and physicochemical segments.

In the clinical segment, it is endorsed by the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML). In the veterinary segment, the certification is endorsed by the Brazilian Society of Veterinary Medicine (SBMV), reinforcing its technical relevance and alignment with best practices in each field.

This technical recognition positions analytical services in a differentiated way before clients, partners, and other key stakeholders.

When certification goes beyond the technical environment

Although it originates from a rigorous analytical assessment, the value of the Proficiency Certificate goes beyond the analyses themselves. For the market, it represents transparency, care, and confidence in the results delivered.

Laboratories and other analytical services that clearly communicate their continuous participation in external quality assessments strengthen their institutional reputation and enhance the perception of credibility among their clients.

Your quality is already recognized. Now it’s time to show it.

To support clients in this process, Controllab provides guidance content with best practices, examples, and guidelines on how to communicate the meaning of the Proficiency Certificate in a clear and strategic way.

The material helps translate technical criteria into accessible messages, bringing the organization closer to its audience and highlighting its achievements.

For laboratories and other analytical services that do not yet participate in Controllab’s Proficiency Testing programs, the certification represents a concrete opportunity to strengthen processes, demonstrate commitment to quality, and gain greater market confidence.

Learn more about quality control programs at controllab.com.

Is your analytical control partial or complete?

admincontrollab — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 11:00:30 +0000

How test coverage sustains analytical quality and strengthens laboratory technical management.

Organized processes are essential for performing tests, but on their own they do not guarantee analytical quality. Quality is only demonstrated when results are supported by continuous monitoring and independent external validation, such as Proficiency Testing, also known as External Quality Assessment.

While Internal Quality Control monitors the stability of routine performance over time, External Quality Assessment independently demonstrates the laboratory’s performance against recognized standards. Depending on the area, mechanisms such as the use of Reference Strains and Certified Reference Materials also apply. Without these controls, there is no objective evidence of analytical quality.

What defines analytical coverage

It is the presence of these controls that defines analytical coverage. It shows in how many and in which tests internal and external quality controls are effectively implemented. Where they exist, there is evidence of quality. Where they do not, there is a technical gap that compromises the safety of results.

When these controls are present across the entire portfolio, coverage is consolidated. When they are applied to only part of the tests, the laboratory operates with partial coverage, meaning different levels of analytical safety within the same system.

In practical terms:

the process organizes test execution;
internal quality control monitors routine performance;
external quality assessment validates performance;
coverage shows how far these elements are present across the portfolio.

Without internal and external quality control, there is execution, but no sustained quality.

The direct impact on technical management

Partial coverage creates asymmetries in the quality system, makes it harder to provide evidence during audits, weakens standardization, and increases exposure to technical and regulatory risks. A structured process ensures execution, but only coverage guarantees consistent monitoring and validation across the entire portfolio.

From a business perspective, operating with different levels of analytical safety undermines confidence in results and increases exposure to risks that directly affect reputation and the robustness of quality management.

Expanding coverage strengthens quality

Expanding coverage means ensuring that all tests follow the same monitoring and validation criteria. This strengthens analytical reliability, reduces risks, and demonstrates the maturity of the quality system.

Complete coverage as a sign of technical maturity

Complete coverage supports audits, reinforces regulatory compliance, and consolidates confidence in results. More than a differentiator, it becomes the foundation of the laboratory’s analytical quality.

In this context, having experienced partners in quality control programs makes a difference. For nearly 50 years, Controllab has worked alongside laboratories in various fields, offering Proficiency Testing programs and solutions that support the development of solid, technical analytical coverage aligned with regulatory requirements.

Talk to a Controllab specialist and evaluate how to expand the coverage of your tests in a technical, safe, and fully compliant manner.

Controllab for everyone: quality that drives the evolution of analytical services

admincontrollab — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 11:00:17 +0000

The company’s quality control solutions strengthen the excellence of analyses in laboratories of different specialties, sizes, and levels of operation.

In a scenario of rapid change and multiple demands, maintaining quality is not just a requirement — it is what sustains trust and the future of analytical services.

The commitment to quality has no size: it is born in every decision a laboratory makes to deliver reliable results and reinforce client confidence.

Controllab stands alongside every service that performs analyses, regardless of its size, specialty, or maturity stage. From those beginning their journey to those managing complex networks, all share the same purpose: to evolve with consistency and confidence.

Support for laboratories of all sizes

Small laboratories: find an ally that understands their routines and offers accessible, straightforward support. They have access to the same controls used by leading institutions, ensuring reliable results from the start and building, step by step, the foundation of credibility — the first step toward solid growth.

Medium-sized laboratories: rely on a strategic partnership to advance. Periodic evaluations, data intelligence, and resource-optimizing solutions strengthen quality control and make the process more efficient. With clear performance and evolution indicators, consistent results become a powerful competitive advantage.

Large networks: operating across different regions and complexities benefit from support to monitor each test with reliability and traceability. Standardization across units, continuous technical support, and consolidated result analyses enable safer, more strategic decision-making throughout the network.

Quality that connects the present to the future

The technical quality Controllab delivers is not a barrier — it is a bridge. A bridge that connects today’s laboratory with the one it aspires to be tomorrow.

With 48 years of experience, a presence in 40 countries, and more than 3,500 assays, Controllab brings together expertise and innovation.

Every advancement results from the same purpose that drives partner laboratories: turning data into trust and analytical routine into excellence.

Time to strengthen the foundations for growth

As the year draws to a close, goals and strategic plans take shape. This is the ideal moment to look ahead and reinforce the foundations that support growth.

Count on Controllab to expand confidence in results, inspire new achievements, and continue evolving with quality.

If every decision impacts quality, which tests in your routine could still benefit from Controllab’s support?

Talk to our specialists and discover how your laboratory can achieve even more consistent results in the next cycle.

Controllab is ready to walk alongside you in this evolution.

From evidence to practice: Controllab studies inspire advances in laboratory quality

admincontrollab — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:00:57 +0000

Scientific contributions highlight Brazil’s leadership and its commitment to excellence and safety in laboratory results.

Brazil’s participation in major national and international congresses throughout this year once again highlighted Controllab’s presence as a scientific reference in laboratory quality. At the 57th Brazilian Congress of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine (CBPC/ML), the 26th IFCC-EFLM EuroMedLab Congress of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, and the ISQua’s 41st International Conference, the company presented studies that reveal consistent data applicable to the continuous improvement of laboratory services.

The research covered topics ranging from molecular diagnostics to monitoring patient safety culture, demonstrating the role of Proficiency Testing programs and Laboratory Indicators (Metricare) in harmonizing practices and driving increasingly reliable results.

Evidence that transforms practice

1. Accuracy in reading ANA patterns by HEp-2 immunofluorescence

The study evaluated laboratories’ ability to identify autoantibody patterns in ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) tests, based on national (BCA) and international (ICAP) consensus. Results showed good recognition of basic patterns (such as AC-0, with 95.2% accuracy), but difficulties with more complex nuclear patterns (AC-1, AC-2, and AC-29). The study reinforces the importance of continuous education to standardize laboratory practices, essential for diagnostic harmonization in autoimmune diseases.

Read the published abstract

2. Anti-HIV and Anti-HCV by POCT: 14 years of performance monitoring

Two studies presented a 14-year performance overview of rapid tests for detecting antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Brazil. Both showed high accuracy of the kits available on the market — with success rates above 98% in most cases — and a significant increase in the number of healthcare facilities participating. The results reflect the contribution of pre-market evaluation and post-market monitoring actions for rapid tests, ensuring ongoing quality and reliability of these assays over time.

Read the abstract on HIV
Read the abstract on HCV

3. Syphilis: increasing quality in the use of rapid tests

Another highlight among rapid tests was the study of the syphilis program, which showed significant growth in participant facilities — from 9 in 2010 to 113 in 2024 — and robust performance of the evaluated kits, with sensitivity and specificity above 98%. The data confirm the reliability of rapid tests and show how participation in the Proficiency Testing program ensures safety when releasing results.

Read the published abstract

4. HPV: commercial kits outperform laboratory-developed tests

Two studies on HPV (Human Papillomavirus) compared the performance of molecular tests for detecting high-risk and low-risk oncogenic HPV. One study demonstrated that commercial kits (IVD) outperformed laboratory-developed tests (LDTs), especially in detecting high-risk HPV. In the other, although both test types (high and low risk) showed good results, there is room for improving accuracy in low-risk HPV detection. These findings support more assertive decisions when choosing tests for cervical cancer screening.

Read the abstract on high-risk HPV
Read the abstract on high- and low-risk HPV

5. Laboratory indicators: stability and challenges in pre-analytical processes

The analysis of seven indicators harmonized by the IFCC showed stability in sigma metrics between 2018 and 2023, with highlight to sustained high performance in indicators such as “sample not received due to transport error” (>7.0σ). However, indicators such as “sample recollection” and “incorrect patient identification” showed statistically significant deterioration, revealing critical areas for continuous improvement actions.

Read the published abstract

6. Patient safety: perception still varies among professional categories

A survey with more than 1,400 Brazilian clinical laboratory professionals revealed that managers perceive patient safety culture more positively than technicians, analysts, and administrative staff. This difference — mainly in aspects such as open communication, non-punitive response to errors, and leadership support — reinforces the need to engage all professional categories to ensure that the safety culture becomes fully established in institutions.

Read the published abstract

Technical leadership and commitment to quality

Controllab’s presence, with the presentation of scientific studies at these events, demonstrates the role of Proficiency Testing programs and Metricare (Laboratory Indicators) in generating data that guide the improvement of laboratory quality in Brazil and other countries.

With programs accredited by ABNT NBR ISO/IEC 17043 and grounded in robust evidence, the studies strengthen the importance of continuous performance evaluation, harmonization of practices, and technical qualification of laboratory teams.

These contributions encourage healthcare institutions of all sizes to promote analytical excellence and patient safety, reinforcing Controllab’s commitment to applied science and the continuous development of laboratory medicine.

Transform Quality Control into safer and more strategic decisions

admincontrollab — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:55:47 +0000

See where your organization stands today and how far it can go with analytics-driven quality insights.

Quality management in healthcare has evolved. Today, it is not enough to simply monitor results; they must be interpreted with analytical intelligence, performance compared, and opportunities for improvement identified quickly and accurately.

With this in mind, Controllab presents Analytical QC BI, the new module of Metricare that transforms Proficiency Testing data (External Quality Control) into strategic insights for comparative management (benchmarking).

With it, laboratory and healthcare network managers can see beyond the numbers: they discover where their units excel, where improvements are needed, and how to align their practices with the best industry standards.

Clarity and confidence for decisions that drive results

Analytical QC BI automatically organizes Proficiency Testing data, enabling comparisons between laboratories within the same network and with the market.

This broader perspective strengthens governance, enhances traceability, and facilitates performance demonstration in audits and accreditations.

With consistent and up-to-date information, managers gain clarity to act, lead their teams with greater confidence, and turn data into decisions that elevate organizational performance.

At the 57th CBPC/ML, the Rede D’Or case was presented, highlighting how they already use Analytical QC BI as an ally in data-driven quality management, consolidating their position as a reference in innovation and analytical intelligence in healthcare.

Security and reliability

The data processed in Metricare – the intelligence platform that supports daily decision-making in healthcare and wellness organizations – is secure, confidential, and anonymized. The tool gathers information on laboratory management, microbiology, patient safety, and other areas, providing a comprehensive view of performance. Check the full list.

The platform also integrates systems from technology partner companies, facilitating data collection and reducing errors.

A new level for quality management

With Analytical QC BI, your organization can:

Compare results between units and with the market;

Set realistic goals and track progress;
Identify trends and respond quickly to deviations;
Demonstrate compliance with accreditations and regulations, including the Brazilian standard RDC 978/2025 from Anvisa.

Recognition and partnerships that reinforce credibility

The laboratory module of Metricare is endorsed by SBPC/ML and follows international standards from the IFCC.

The platform’s management and technology also contribute metrics for institutions that promote best practices and patient safety, such as SOBRASP, CBR, and Abramed.

Discover the power of Analytical QC BI

See where your organization stands today and how far it can go with analytics-driven quality insights.

Talk to the specialists behind this innovation via WhatsApp +55 (21) 98258-0074.

Manage your Internal Control with expert intelligence

admincontrollab — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 10:55:08 +0000

Those who use Controllab controls have free access to CI Online, a digital platform created and guided by professionals who work with quality control in practice.

CI Online: Intelligence applied to control data

CI Online transforms the monitoring of Internal Control into a faster, safer, and smarter process. Developed from decades of experience in laboratory quality control, this digital platform turns analytical data into insights that strengthen decision-making and simplify daily monitoring.

With it, laboratories combine the performance of control materials with the intelligence of an environment designed by experts who deeply understand the challenges of analytical routines.
The best part is that this entire structure is available at no additional cost for those using Controllab’s internal controls in the clinical segment.

Complete solution for laboratory quality internal control

More than providing reliable performance materials, Controllab delivers a complete solution — from physical materials to digital intelligence — supporting laboratories at every stage of quality control.

With CI Online, users don’t need to invest in separate software or manual spreadsheets: everything is fully integrated, ready to use, and backed by specialists who follow laboratories’ daily operations, turning questions and experiences into continuous service improvements.

Ensure greater convenience and confidence in monitoring your analyses

Discover the main features of CI Online:

Increase confidence in your results

Simplify your quality control routine

Optimize quality management

Analysis of performance across reagent lots.
Statistical information by period.
Recording of actions and comments.
Access to reagent package inserts, control material documentation, and equipment manuals.
Historical records and traceability of actions taken on results.

Controllab Internal Control: analytical security at every step

Internal Control (IC) is an essential practice to ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results. By processing control samples alongside routine tests, the laboratory can:

Identify operational errors and analytical deviations before they affect patients;
Monitor the stability, sensitivity, and specificity of reagents;
Demonstrate compliance with standards and regulatory requirements.

Controllab materials offer advantages that promote a safer routine aligned with international standards:

Third-party controls, developed independently from reagent or calibrator manufacturers — a practice aligned with ISO 15189.
Interlaboratory assessment, ensuring results that are closer to the true value and more reflective of the actual variation of the test.

Clinically relevant concentrations, simulating real laboratory routine scenarios.
Free access to CI Online.

Your analytical routine can go further

Do you want to add intelligent analytical structure to your Internal Control to enhance your laboratory routine and ensure result accuracy?

Discover Controllab’s Internal Control program and get free access to CI Online.
Talk to our specialists on WhatsApp: +55 21 98258-0074.

SBPC/ML and CBDL support Batch-to-Batch Certification for POCTs

admincontrollab — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:00:10 +0000

Controllab’s pioneering initiative ensures consistent performance of rapid tests and enhances diagnostic safety.

During the 57th Brazilian Congress of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine (57th CBPC/ML), held from September 16 to 19 in Rio de Janeiro, the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML) and the Brazilian Chamber of Laboratory Diagnostics (CBDL) formally expressed institutional support for the Batch-to-Batch Certification Program — a pioneering Controllab initiative aimed at strengthening the quality of rapid tests.

This action underscores the relevance of the initiative and the organizations’ commitment to technological and regulatory advancement, while also driving technical and scientific improvement in the field of in vitro diagnostics for the benefit of public health.

Consistency assurance in every batch

Even with strict production controls, variations between reagent batches can occur and may affect analytical performance — and, consequently, confidence in the results.

The Batch-to-Batch Certification Program takes a preventive approach, providing greater safety for laboratories and healthcare services performing the analyses. Before a batch is used in routine testing, the certification issued by the manufacturer confirms that it has undergone an independent evaluation, ensuring consistent and reliable results.

The certificate is made available free of charge by the manufacturer to the facilities performing the tests, reinforcing a commitment to transparency and quality.

This practice ensures:

Greater confidence for professionals.
Greater safety for patients.
Greater efficiency throughout the entire care journey.

An initiative that inspires trust

According to Alvaro Pulchinelli Junior, President of SBPC/ML, “The support for the Batch-to-Batch Certification Program reflects SBPC/ML’s commitment to excellence and safety in laboratory diagnostics. The initiative aligns with the best practices recommended by the Society, strengthening traceability and the reliability of results — both essential for patient safety and quality of care.”

For Fúlvio Facco, Chairman of the CBDL Board, this type of partnership enables test manufacturers to comply with relevant health regulations, which has greatly contributed to increased product availability for the population.

“CBDL and its members are pleased with this initiative because it allows for greater public access to Point-of-Care testing. Both manufacturers and healthcare providers will be working in compliance with ANVISA’s new regulation.”

According to Controllab’s CEO, Vinicius Biasoli, the certification represents more than a technical validation — it marks an evolution in the culture of quality: “Our commitment has always been to strengthen confidence in laboratory results. With Batch-to-Batch Certification, we deliver quality and safety to test users, supporting more accurate clinical decisions and more efficient routines. Innovation, quality, and regulatory compliance can move forward together, raising the standard of excellence across the entire sector.”

Certification that benefits everyone

Benefits for organizations performing tests

Include batch certification in your routine and achieve:

Healthcare services,
how to obtain the certificate?

Simply request it from the manufacturer — the certificate is free for you.

Benefits for manufacturers and registration holders

Certify your product batch and strengthen your brand’s reputation:

Technical validation of batch performance
Transparency with customers
Competitive advantage
Reduction of post-sale issues
Meets the needs of testing laboratories, reducing their costs and efforts when changing batches

Manufacturer,
how to obtain the certificate?

Contact Controllab.

Manufacturers that have already joined

Want to know which manufacturers are already participating in the program?

Check the table below:

To view the complete list of certified batches, access this link.

A trusted network that transforms care

The statements from SBPC/ML, CBDL, and Controllab converge on one point: ensuring reliable results is a shared commitment.

Batch-to-Batch Certification not only raises the technical standard of POCTs but also strengthens trust across the entire diagnostic chain — from the manufacturer to the healthcare professional, and most importantly, to the patient.

Adopt this quality practice

Want to have this advantage in your routine? Speak with the manufacturer of your rapid tests and request batch certification.

This choice provides greater confidence in the results and reinforces your service’s commitment to reliable diagnostics.

Reference strains produced in compliance with ISO 17034: a new standard for your microbiological routine

admincontrollab — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 11:00:32 +0000

The credibility of culture collections with the recognition of Certified Reference Material (CRM).

In analytical laboratory routines, reference strains are essential for quality control of the inputs used in clinical and veterinary diagnostic tests, as well as in microbiological analyses of food, water, pharmaceutical products and environmental samples. They are also indispensable for method validation studies and measurement uncertainty determination.

In analytical processes, Certified Reference Material (CRM) is the primary recommendation of ABNT NBR ISO/IEC 17025 and ABNT NBR ISO 15189 for metrological traceability. These CRMs are produced in accordance with internationally accepted criteria established by ABNT NBR ISO 17034.

Have you considered incorporating reference strains recognized as Certified Reference Materials into your routine?

This combination represents the highest level of quality and metrological traceability, backed by leading international standards and references. A key differentiator that reinforces your laboratory’s commitment to accuracy and confidence in microbiological results.

To make this quality standard accessible to laboratories, Controllab provides reference strains recognized as Certified Reference Materials.

The company is accredited as a Reference Material Producer (PMR 0009) by Inmetro’s General Accreditation Coordination and licensed by the United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UK HSA) for the NCTC® (National Collection of Type Cultures) — the world’s oldest bacterial collection — and NCPF® (National Collection of Pathogenic Fungi) culture collections.

Equivalence of the main culture collections

Like ATCC®, NCTC® is a global benchmark for culture collections. Both are registered in the WDCM (World Data Center for Microorganisms), an international database that groups strains into a unified identification system. This facilitates comparison and exchange of information on reference strains.

In the WDCM, the same strain may have different designations depending on the collection. For example, Escherichia coli NCTC® 12241 is also designated as ATCC® 25922, CIP® 76.24, DSM® 1103, CCUG® 17620 or CECT® 434, depending on the culture collection.

Therefore, when using an NCTC® or ATCC® strain, you are working with equivalent strains, sharing the same phenotypic and genotypic characteristics. Technical protocols and accreditation bodies recognize this equivalence, ensuring compliance across collections.

Why choose Controllab reference strains?

By adopting Controllab Reference Strains, laboratories bring the rigor of ISO 17034 into their routine, combined with the reliability of internationally recognized culture collections.

With the Reference Strains program, laboratories gain access to scheduled strains that simplify complex processes, reduce risks of contamination and mutations, eliminate the need for internal maintenance, and free up time for what truly matters: precise and reliable results.

More than a technical choice, it is a decision that reflects the laboratory’s commitment to excellence and safety in every result delivered.

Want to ensure analytical quality and strengthen confidence in your results?

Speak with a Controllab specialist.

Controllab will join HEMO 2025 in São Paulo

admincontrollab — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 11:00:14 +0000

Present at one of the largest events in the field, the company will showcase solutions that raise analytical standards and strengthen confidence in results.

From October 29 to November 1, 2025, the Brazilian Congress of Hematology, Hemotherapy and Cellular Therapy (HEMO 2025) will take place at the Transamérica Expo Center in São Paulo (SP). Organized by the Brazilian Association of Hematology, Hemotherapy and Cellular Therapy (ABHH), the event is recognized as the third largest Hematology congress in the world, consolidating Brazil’s leadership in the global scientific landscape.

Over the course of four days, national and international experts will share innovative perspectives and globally relevant experiences, addressing topics such as Hemotherapy, Cellular Therapy & BMT, Onco-Hematology, Pediatric Hematology, Hemostasis & Thrombosis, Anemias, Flow Cytometry, Laboratory Hematology, Palliative Care, among others.

Controllab Exhibition

At HEMO 2025, attendees will be able to visit the Controllab stand and explore quality control solutions that enhance analytical standards and reinforce the recognition of laboratory services.

The company’s portfolio covers several areas that support hemotherapy services, transfusion testing, and related laboratory analyses. Some of these include:

The complete catalog for External Quality Control (Proficiency Testing) and Internal Quality Control is available at https://controllab.com/en/catalog/.

Controllab’s participation in HEMO 2025 reaffirms its commitment to promoting result reliability across different analytical segments, enhancing the overall efficiency of the sector.

Secure your spot and check out the full program on the official event website: https://hemo.org.br/hemo2025

Contamination in medicines: how to monitor the safety of your processes?

admincontrollab — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 11:00:51 +0000

Controllab’s Proficiency Testing programs are strategic allies for evaluating laboratory routines and reinforcing the reliability of results.

Pharmaceutical products require strict quality controls to ensure the safety and health of the population. A recent incident in Argentina highlights the seriousness of this responsibility: contaminated fentanyl batches caused severe infections by Klebsiella pneumoniae and Ralstonia pickettii, some strains resistant to multiple antibiotics, resulting in fatal clinical outcomes for dozens of patients.

Cases like this underscore the importance of practices that ensure the reliability of analytical results and, consequently, the quality of products made available on the market. In this context, Controllab, a leader in laboratory quality control in Latin America, offers Proficiency Testing (PT) programs designed for laboratories working with Sterile and Non-Sterile Pharmaceutical Products.

These programs evaluate analytical performance using control samples recognized by the Coordenação-Geral de Acreditação do Inmetro (PEP 0003), Brazil’s accreditation authority. Comparing results with other participants and analyzing the outcomes allows laboratories to detect and correct analytical deviations, improve process efficiency and safety, and demonstrate regulatory and normative compliance.

The programs include the following tests:

Tabela

Programs

Tests

Accreditation

Sterile Pharmaceutical
Products I

Sterility testing in pharmaceutical raw materials, injectable medicines, ophthalmic solutions, and healthcare products.

Non-Sterile Pharmaceutical
Products I

Total aerobic mesophilic microorganism count

Search for:

- Fecal Coliforms

- Bile-tolerant Gram-negative bacteria in oral and topical medicines

Controllab also offers other programs that support laboratory routines and reinforce the reliability of results. These are:

Tabela

Programs

Tests

Accreditation

Sterile Pharmaceutical
Products II

Mold and yeast (fungi) count

Sterile II (Detection /1 mL)

Search for:

- Clostridia

- Sulfite-reducing Clostridia

- Clostridium perfringens

- Staphylococcus aureus

Non-Sterile Pharmaceutical
Products II

Mold and yeast count

Search for:

- Candida albicans

- Clostridia

- Sulfite-reducing Clostridia

- Clostridium perfringens

- Staphylococcus aureus

By participating in the Proficiency Testing program, laboratories strengthen the traceability and reliability of their analyses, reduce health risks, and contribute directly to the protection of public health.

To learn more about these and other programs that support analytical routines, access the online catalog.

Controllab showcases innovations that raise the standard of testing

admincontrollab — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 11:00:43 +0000

During the largest congress in the sector, the company unveiled initiatives that enhance the safety and efficiency of analytical routines.

Controllab, the leading provider of quality control solutions in Latin America, reinforced its pioneering position during the 57th Brazilian Congress of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine (57º CBPC/ML), held from September 16 to 19 at Riocentro (RJ).

The new developments drew the attention of participants for their potential to transform analytical workflows, providing greater confidence for managers and teams. Some of the innovations are already available to clients in the clinical segment, boosting efficiency and process safety.

Multi-equipment reports: before and after interlaboratory comparison

Reporting results from multiple systems has long been part of the routine for Controllab’s Proficiency Testing users, even before the Brazilian standard RDC 978/2025. Now, this practice has been enhanced with the addition of a real-time intralaboratory report.

By entering results from different systems for the same test, participants can immediately view a comparison between their instruments, identifying any discrepancies while the external control is still being processed. After the round is closed, the data is compared with market results, offering a broader and more strategic view.

As with multi-system reporting, access to the new report is free for all participants.

Multi-microscopist reporting: better-aligned teams

Also available at no additional cost, this feature allows multiple microscopists to submit results for the same case in the Proficiency Testing program.

The quality control administrator receives a consolidated view of the data, making it easier to identify improvement opportunities and strengthen team performance.

This functionality is a valuable support tool for laboratories seeking continuous professional development.

Proficiency Testing automation for greater day-to-day agility

One of the event’s biggest highlights was the automation of the Proficiency Testing reporting process, developed through a partnership between Data Innovations and Controllab.

This world-first initiative connects the sample, laboratory software, and Online System, ensuring agility and security in result submission. Already being implemented at an Einstein Hospital Israelite unit, the solution was described by Alice Friedenberg, Sales Executive at Data Innovations for Latin America, as: “An example of the power of collaboration to turn data into decisions and elevate laboratory quality standards.”

At the booth, visitors also had a first look at another innovation: QR Code labels on materials, giving instant access to control instructions and test lists for a more practical workflow.

Analytical indicators in Metricare: intelligence for strategic decisions

Metricare, Controllab’s data intelligence platform, now features an Analytical BI module dedicated to quality control. The feature automatically structures Proficiency Testing data, enabling strategic comparisons across single or multiple lab networks.

The tool is already being used by Rede D’Or São Luiz. During the congress, Dr. Nilo Duarte, Head of Clinical Analysis in São Paulo, shared his experience in a workshop: “Controllab solved a problem for me. With Analytical QC BI, we can view performance from a broader perspective and act quickly, strengthening quality management.”

Batch-to-Batch Certification for POCTs: confidence before use

One of the highlights for the In Vitro Diagnostics audience was the institutional support from SBPC/ML and CBDL for the Batch-to-Batch Certification Program. Their endorsement reinforces the relevance of the initiative and the sector’s commitment to exam safety and reliability.

Each new batch is evaluated in advance at no cost to healthcare facilities. Certification is provided directly by the manufacturer, ensuring consistent performance across batches and preventing undesirable variations.

This practice delivers clear benefits: greater uniformity, cost savings, and compliance with regulations such as the Brazilian standard RDC 978/2025. The result is confidence for professionals and protection for patients throughout the care journey.

To access the certificate, simply request it from the manufacturer — it is free for testing services.

A trusted partner in quality control

The solutions presented reaffirm Controllab’s commitment to anticipating trends and supporting safe clinical decision-making, always with a focus on excellence in results. More than innovations, attendees witnessed practical examples of how the company transforms industry challenges into accessible and reliable solutions.

Already a Controllab client?
Take advantage of these updates to bring even more efficiency and confidence to your routine.

Not yet partnered with Controllab?
Talk to a specialist and discover how to strengthen the quality and recognition of your service.

Controllab participates in the ISQua Conference and reinforces its commitment to healthcare quality

admincontrollab — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 11:17:01 +0000

The company is presenting four scientific abstracts that address laboratory quality assessment and accreditation.

Controllab will be present at the 41st ISQua International Conference (International Society for Quality in Health Care), from October 12 to 15, 2025, at the World Trade Centre in São Paulo, in partnership with the National Accreditation Organization (ONA).

The event will bring together specialists and global leaders to discuss this year’s central theme: “Inclusive health systems: addressing challenges with technology and humanity.” The program includes lectures, roundtables, workshops, and other activities focused on the advances and challenges in healthcare quality.

By participating in another significant international event, Controllab reaffirms its commitment to promoting knowledge, innovation, and excellence, sharing experiences, and following discussions that directly impact the sector.

Scientific abstracts

During the ISQua International Conference, Controllab will present four scientific abstracts highlighting the importance of external quality assessment and international benchmarking in the context of laboratory accreditation:

Laboratory Performance in Molecular Detection of High-Risk HPV: Commercial Kits Outperform Laboratory-Developed Test.
Progress in HIV Diagnostics: A 14-Year Review of Point-of-Care Testing Performance and Quality Assessment.
Strengthening Diagnostic Quality and Patient Safety: Insights from a Long-Term External Quality Assessment of D-dimer Testing.
Impact of Laboratory Accreditation on the Performance of Quality Indicators in an International Indicator Benchmarking Program.

These studies reinforce Controllab’s role in promoting safe, reliable laboratory practices that align with international quality standards.

ICLAP: standard of excellence recognized by ISQua

The standard underpinning ICLAP (International Clinical Laboratories Accreditation Program) — a laboratory accreditation program developed by Controllab with international reach — is accredited by ISQuaEEA (International Society for Quality in Health Care External Evaluation Association). This recognition demonstrates the program’s robustness and its adherence to the highest international standards.

ICLAP accreditation certifies that a laboratory adopts practices aligned with quality, patient safety, and continuous improvement, representing a differentiator for international laboratories of all sizes seeking to strengthen their credibility and expand their positioning in the sector.

For more information about the event, please visit the official website.

Controllab launches the Hematology Mini Atlas – Leukocytes

admincontrollab — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 11:02:15 +0000

An indispensable resource to support laboratory practice.

Controllab has just made available the Hematology Mini Atlas – Leukocytes, an exclusive material that brings together high-resolution images for study and reference. It was developed to support professionals and students who wish to clearly understand the different structures of the white series, using advanced microscopy and staining techniques.

In it, you will find:

Myeloid maturation sequence;
Mature leukocytes in peripheral blood without morphological alterations;
Reactive changes in neutrophils;
Reactive changes in lymphocytes.

Where to access the Mini Atlas

The material can be accessed through the Learning menu on the Controllab website, where previous editions are also available (Erythrocytes, Parasitology, and Urinary Sediment) – all widely used as references by professionals in the field.

In addition to being a recognized resource in laboratory routines, the Mini Atlas facilitates learning and makes the analysis of the white series much more visual and practical.

The Hematology Mini Atlas – White Series was highlighted at the 57th CBPC/ML, where visitors could pick up the printed version through an interactive quiz at the Controllab booth. Now, you can also access it.

Download your Mini Atlas for free and explore the white blood cell series in a clearer and more didactic way.

Controllab launches Proficiency Testing for Cosmetics in the Perfumes category

admincontrollab — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 10:55:24 +0000

Evaluate the performance of pH, density, and alcohol content for free, and strengthen the reliability of your analyses.

Controllab, a leader in laboratory quality control in Latin America, invites laboratories to participate for free in the first round of the Proficiency Testing for Cosmetics: Perfumes.

In this round, participants will be able to evaluate their performance in pH, density, and alcohol content, ensuring measurement accuracy and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Proficiency Testing (PT), also known as External Quality Control (EQC), is an essential tool for assessing a laboratory’s analytical performance. In addition, it is a necessary requirement for laboratory accreditation processes and for meeting the demands of regulatory authorities.

In the cosmetics industry, the reliability of these analyses is crucial to ensure that raw materials, in-process products, and finished products meet specifications, guaranteeing quality, safety, and efficacy.

The Proficiency Testing (PT) follows the criteria of ABNT NBR ISO/IEC 17043 and will be sent in October 2025. This round will be free of charge for laboratories that register their interest via this link by September 19.

This initiative expands the portfolio for testing laboratories, which already have a wide range of controls for physicochemical and microbiological analyses, as well as an extensive scope of Certified Reference Material.

Join us!

Discover what Controllab has prepared for the 57th CBPC/ML.

admincontrollab — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 12:30:04 +0000

Innovations in quality control and the participation of its experts will be featured in the congress program.

Controllab’s pioneering spirit and educational engagement will be showcased at the 57th Brazilian Congress of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine (57th CBPC/ML), taking place from September 16 to 19 at Riocentro (RJ). The event is one of the sector’s main benchmarks, bringing together professionals seeking updates, knowledge exchange, and solutions for the future of laboratory medicine.

As a leader in quality control solutions in Latin America, Controllab will present innovations designed to make the sector’s daily routines simpler and more efficient. At booth 111, attendees will have the opportunity to see up close how the company stays connected with the evolution of the field.

Among the new releases are:

Complete automation of Proficiency Testing (External Quality Control).
Proficiency Testing with real-time intralaboratory comparison across multiple systems.
Performance certification between POCT lots.
Business Intelligence (BI) Analytics for Quality Control.

In addition to exploring these innovations, event attendees will be able to follow Controllab’s experts in various activities throughout the scientific program.

Pre-Congress Activities

On September 15th, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Controllab experts will be among the speakers leading activities designed to enhance participants’ knowledge:

CP 09 – BrCAST: Theoretical/Practical Bacteriology Course – Shirley Lima, Microbiology Manager, will present an overview of quality control in microbiology laboratories.
Exclusive Meeting for Diagnostic Industry Exhibitors, Health Surveillance, and CBDL: Jéssica Gomes, R&D Manager, will participate in the meeting and demonstrate how Lot-to-Lot Certification promotes continuous quality, ensuring patient safety and credibility for healthcare professionals.

Controllab Workshop

With the theme “From Data to Decision: Innovative Technological Solutions to Optimize Quality Control,” the session will take place in Room 2 on September 17th, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM.

Moderated by José Poloni (Controllab) and Dr. Wilson Shcolnik (SBPC/ML), the session will bring together Controllab experts to discuss advances and best practices in analytical monitoring, focusing on innovation, technology, and efficient management. The session will also feature case studies presented by representatives from Data Innovations, Einstein Hospital Israelita, and Rede D’Or, enriching the discussions.

Topics to be covered include:

Quality Control: Continuity, Advances, and Global References – Claudio Bastos (Technical Services Manager).
Beyond Compliance: Excellence in Analytical Performance Monitoring – Lívia Soares (Client Services Manager).
How Technology Can Optimize Quality Control Processes – Rafael Monsores Lopes (General Services Manager) and Rafael Balthazar (IT Manager).

Participation in Forums and Roundtables

The company’s experts will also take part in the congress forums and roundtables, sharing data and performance insights on various topics.

Topics include:

Tabela - Programação Controllab 57º CBPC/ML

16/09, 15h, Sala 2	MR11 - Fórum de Indicadores Laboratoriais de Qualidade: Indicadores de Desempenho em Microbiologia.	Histórico dos Indicadores na Metricare. Aplicações Práticas dos Indicadores de Urocultura na Rotina da Microbiologia.
17/09, 15h, Sala 4	MR30 - Excelência Diagnóstica em Laboratórios Clínicos: Desafios, Perspectivas e Aperfeiçoamento Contínuo na Gestão da Qualidade.	Controle da Qualidade na Prática: Garantindo Precisão e Confiabilidade no Diagnóstico.
18/09, 9h, Sala 3	MR38 - POCT para Glicose: Segurança, Qualidade e Eficiência no Diagnóstico e Monitoramento do Diabetes.	Controle da Qualidade em Glicosímetros: A Importância da Certificação Lote a Lote.
18/09, 9h, Sala 6	MR41 - Precisão que Salva: Segurança do Paciente depende do Laboratório - Integrando práticas laboratoriais seguras à jornada do cuidado.	Indicadores Laboratoriais de Segurança do Paciente: A Importância de Medir, Monitorar, Interpretar e Comparar Indicadores.
18/09, 9h, Sala 2	MR37 - Fórum de Indicadores Laboratoriais de Qualidade: Indicadores de Desempenho de Laboratórios Clínicos, das Fases Pré e Pós-Analíticas.	A Importância dos Indicadores na Gestão Estratégica do Laboratório.

Controllab Scientific Abstracts

During the congress, be sure to visit the poster section. The abstracts present study results highlighting the importance of quality tools in daily laboratory practice, covering topics such as:

Assessment of Brazilian Laboratories’ Competence in Identifying ANA Patterns, according to the Brazilian Consensus on Autoantibodies (CBA) and the International Consensus on ANA Patterns (ICAP).
Advances in Point-of-Care Tests for Anti-HCV: 14 Years of Quality Insights from Brazil’s EQAP (2010–2024).
Advances in HIV Diagnosis: A 14-Year Review of Performance and Quality Assessment in Point-of-Care Testing.
Laboratory Performance in High-Risk HPV Molecular Detection: Commercial Kits Outperform Laboratory-Developed Tests.
Pre-Analytical Quality Assessment in Clinical Laboratories: Evolution of Sigma Metrics Across Seven Indicators Harmonized by the IFCC in an International Laboratory Benchmarking Program.
Laboratory Performance in High- and Low-Risk HPV Molecular Detection: High-Risk HPV Assays Outperform Low-Risk HPV Assays.

Commitment to Sustainability

Controllab participates in the project “SBPC/ML and Sustainability in the Clinical Laboratory,” promoted by SBPC/ML, sharing some of its practices within the initiative “Less Waste, More Reuse.”

These actions encourage organic waste composting and recycling, reinforcing the company’s commitment to life and to practices that promote environmental responsibility.

Controllab Space

At the booth, in addition to the highlighted innovations, you will find the most comprehensive solutions for laboratory quality control within one of the industry’s widest portfolios, supporting everyday analytical routines.

In addition to interacting with the team, visitors can participate in a quiz on Quality Control and Indicators and receive a free printed copy of the new Mini Hematology Atlas – White Series, released exclusively for the event.

At Booth 111, you’ll find more than just innovations: you’ll gain access to solutions that connect technology, innovation, and practice, driving the advancement of laboratory quality.

Come see this movement up close and be part of the sector’s evolution.

Controllab joins national initiative to strengthen the fight against antimicrobial resistance

admincontrollab — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 11:00:19 +0000

Partnership with healthcare institutions strengthens VigiRAM monitoring, enhancing surveillance and prevention in Brazil.

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), considered by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the greatest threats to global health, has gained reinforcement in Brazil. Controllab, a leading provider of laboratory quality control in Latin America, has joined the project VigiRAM – Fortalecimento de um Sistema Brasileiro de Vigilância e Prevenção da Resistência Antimicrobiana. The initiative monitors and prevents the spread of resistant microorganisms across all Brazilian states.

The project is coordinated by the Laboratório de Bacteriologia Aplicada à Saúde Única e Resistência Antimicrobiana (LabSUR/LAPIH) of the Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC/Fiocruz), the Coordenação-Geral de Laboratórios de Saúde Pública da Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde e Ambiente do Ministério da Saúde (CGLAB/SVSA/MS), and the Laboratório Central de Saúde Pública do Paraná (Lacen-PR). It also includes partnerships with the Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA) and two institutions from the Universidade Federal de São Paulo (Unifesp): the Laboratório Especial de Micologia (LEMI) and the Grupo de Análise em Infecções e Antimicrobianos (GAIA). The project is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the United States (CDC/USA).

The goal is to expand and strengthen a national system capable of monitoring, preventing, and responding rapidly to AMR cases—a challenge that threatens treatment effectiveness and increases the risk of hospital outbreaks. These actions are fully aligned with the National Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Antimicrobial Resistance, strengthening the country’s public health system.

Controllab’s Participation

Throughout 2025, Controllab was contracted to contribute to the project through the development and implementation of customized External Quality Control programs (Proficiency Testing) in the fields of bacteriology and mycology, in addition to supplying Reference Strains. These actions are complemented by educational initiatives that promote the ongoing training of participating laboratories and strengthen national surveillance efforts.

VigiRAM brings together 56 institutions across all Brazilian states, including 27 sentinel hospitals, 27 Central Public Health Laboratories (LACEN), and two specialized research laboratories. The focus is on the identification of microorganisms, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and conducting phenotypic and genotypic tests for bacterial and fungal resistance.

Public Health Impact

Controllab’s participation enhances the project’s impact by strengthening the national capacity for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance. The implementation of quality programs—already recognized within the analytical sector—promotes greater accuracy in microbiological testing, a critical factor for reliable diagnoses, improved laboratory routines, and well-informed public health policies.

This collaboration reaffirms the commitment of the scientific and public health communities to health security and quality of life for the population. For Controllab, being part of this initiative aligns with its mission to ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results—essential elements for correct diagnoses and effective healthcare.

Watch the recording of the veterinary hematology class and deepen your knowledge

admincontrollab — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 12:00:40 +0000

The Online Meeting covered erythrocyte alterations and the correlation between the microscopic findings on the smear and the data from the hematology equipment.

The free class promoted by Controllab, ‘Morphological alterations of erythrocytes, cytoplasmic inclusions, and associated pathological changes,’ is now available.

The class was taught by Dr. Ana Carolina Junqueira Moura, a veterinarian graduated from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), with a Veterinary Residency and a Master’s degree in Animal Science from the same institution. She currently works as a veterinary advisor at the Hermes Pardini Institute and as a technical-scientific advisor at Controllab.

What was covered in the class?

During her presentation, Dr. Ana Carolina emphasized the importance of valuing the complete blood count (CBC) as an essential diagnostic tool. According to the specialist, there is a growing risk of the test being trivialized by some professionals, who reduce its interpretation to generic information that is of little use to the clinician.

She highlighted a recurring scenario in her routine: “I have come across results, for example, where anemia was evident — due to reduced red blood cells, hemoglobin, or hematocrit — but in the smear description, it was limited to simply recording ‘anemia.’ Although technically correct, this conclusion is generic and does not add clinical value. It is essential that the report details the morphological findings that can enrich the analysis and effectively contribute to the clinician’s diagnostic reasoning,” she explained.

According to the specialist, microscopic examination of blood smears is indispensable, as it allows the identification of morphological alterations that are not detected by automated counts. She highlighted, for example, poikilocytosis, which provides valuable clues about the patient’s clinical condition.

In addition to red blood cells, Dr. Ana Carolina stressed the importance of observing and reporting potential alterations in leukocytes and platelets. “We often see little attention given to these changes, and it is precisely this detailed analysis that ensures the CBC serves as a source of information capable of guiding the physician toward a more accurate and safe diagnosis,” she added.

What do they say about the class?

The participants found the training extremely didactic and enriching, with clear content, well-selected images, and a practical approach, facilitating immediate application in daily practice.

Watch the recording now!

Check out the recording of the class on Controllab’s Educational Portal!

It’s worth noting that participating live allows you to clarify your questions about the topic covered, as well as secure your certificate of participation, which is essential to demonstrate your professional development.

On the Online Meeting page, you can watch the recordings of all classes promoted by Controllab. Take advantage of this opportunity and subscribe to the company’s channels on WhatsApp and YouTube to stay up to date with all the content produced quickly and efficiently.

Controllab’s SIPAT 2025 promotes care, diversity, and mental health in the workplace

admincontrollab — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:05:46 +0000

More than a legal requirement, the Internal Week for Accident Prevention served as a strategic space to strengthen a culture of care and inclusion.

In environments where technical precision and responsibility for life are daily demands, the well-being of teams becomes a constant priority. In this context, SIPAT (Internal Week for Workplace Accident Prevention) gains significance not only as an annual event but as an opportunity to connect physical, mental, and relational health with the organizational routine.

Making care a meaningful experience

In the 2025 edition, Controllab proposed a more experiential and participatory SIPAT. The program was led by the Internal Commission for Accident and Harassment Prevention (CIPA), in partnership with the team from Specialized Services in Occupational Safety and Medicine (SESMT) and the Ethics and Combatting Moral and Sexual Harassment Commission (CECA). The event also received strategic support from Firjan SESI, which contributed content and activities focused on promoting health at work.

In addition to essential topics, the initiative also brought important reflections on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the corporate environment.

The program included activities focused on mental health, such as guided meditation and cognitive exercises, emphasizing the importance of mindful breaks and emotional care as part of sustainable productivity.

Another activity that engaged the employees was the plastic bottle cap collection challenge, which combined purpose and sustainability. The initiative demonstrated how small actions can create social impact and strengthen the sense of belonging.

A commitment that goes beyond the event

For Controllab, caring for those who care is a value that goes beyond SIPAT. With over 48 years of experience in the laboratory quality sector, the company believes that safe, respectful, and inclusive environments directly reflect the excellence of the services provided to society.

SIPAT 2025 reaffirmed this commitment and left a legacy that inspires continuous transformation in the daily lives of teams, strengthening not only safety but also the sense of belonging and appreciation of each employee.

Pathos Laboratory ensures the quality of veterinary tests with the achievement of the Proficiency Certificate

admincontrollab — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 10:30:23 +0000

For yet another consecutive year, the laboratory celebrates Controllab’s Proficiency Certificate, a testament to its quality and commitment to animal health.

Based in Porto Alegre and specializing in veterinary analyses, Pathos Laboratory has received the Proficiency Certificate for the 19th consecutive year. This recognition confirms the accuracy of its analytical processes and reinforces the confidence in the results delivered to veterinarians, pet owners, and other partners.

This achievement is the result of the team’s daily dedication to ensuring reliable diagnoses and supporting animal care. The laboratory believes that all animals deserve attention and treatment based on trustworthy information, and it has been operating with this purpose since its inception.

The recognition comes through the Proficiency Testing promoted by Controllab. The laboratory’s participation has been voluntary since the service was launched for the veterinary sector, even before it became a legal requirement. This initiative demonstrates that commitment to quality has always been a priority for Pathos.

Proficiency Testing evaluates the accuracy of tests performed in laboratories. Here is how it works: the laboratory receives control samples, performs the analyses, and sends the results. These data are compared with those from other laboratories and the expected values. When there is agreement, the laboratory proves it is delivering reliable and consistent results.

The certification also keeps Pathos in compliance with the brazilian CFMV Resolution No. 1374/2020, which contributes to the institution’s credibility and strengthens public trust in its services.

The repetition of this achievement for 19 consecutive years demonstrates the laboratory’s solidity in a sector that demands technical quality, transparency, and continuous improvement. It reflects the team’s dedication and care in every step of the analytical processes.

Dr. Rosemari Terezinha de Oliveira, veterinarian, technical manager, and owner of Pathos Laboratory, celebrates:

“Achieving the 19th Proficiency Testing Certificate is a milestone for our team and for everyone who trusts our work. It recognizes our unwavering commitment to quality, process standardization, and technical excellence. For our audience, it represents diagnostic reliability and credibility in reports, proving that we adhere to rigorous external evaluation criteria.

That is why participating in the Proficiency Testing (PT) is fundamental. It allows us to compare our performance against international standards, identify opportunities for improvement, and promote continuous development. More than a quality control tool, the PT strengthens our scientific reputation and reaffirms our commitment to service excellence. This achievement not only validates our technical competence but also symbolizes respect for the patient, the client, and science.”

For Controllab, it is a source of pride to collaborate with institutions that make quality a constant value and prioritize animal health.

Does your laboratory inspire confidence in the results it delivers?

If you already participate in Proficiency Testing, share this with your audience.

If you don’t participate yet, speak with a Controllab specialist and find out how to strengthen the credibility of your services.

Watch Controllab’s free training on Proficiency Testing in Urinalysis

admincontrollab — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 12:30:18 +0000

The meeting covered topics such as how proficiency testing works, the importance of an educational approach, and methods for investigating nonconformities.

You can still catch up on the importance of Proficiency Testing in Urinalysis and its contributions to continuous improvement and safety in laboratory decision-making.

The recording of the class “Investigación de causa de los resultados del Ensayo de Aptitud para Análisis de Orina” is available on Controllab’s Online Meeting page.

The event, conducted in Spanish, was led by Dr. José Poloni, a pharmaceutical biochemist graduated from the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), with a master’s and doctorate in Health Sciences from the Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA). He is an educational manager and uroanalysis consultant at Controllab.

What was covered in the class?

During the session, essential aspects of Proficiency Testing as a fundamental tool to ensure quality in the clinical laboratory were presented.

In the class, Dr. José Poloni led an important reflection with the participants about the true purpose of Proficiency Testing (PT). He emphasized that, often, PT is interpreted in a punitive way, and any nonconformity can cause concern. However, he stressed that this perspective needs to be reframed: PT is, above all, an educational tool.

Focusing on continuous improvement, he demonstrated how Controllab’s program turns every result — including the most challenging ones — into valuable opportunities for learning and growth. An approach that strengthens the quality of laboratory routines and contributes to safer processes.

What are they saying about the class?

Those who participated recommend it! The class was considered extremely valuable by attendees. One piece of feedback highlighted learning a new quality control parameter and how the training helped strengthen professional performance.

If you’re looking to enhance your skills and deepen your knowledge relevant to laboratory routines, this class is for you. Watch the recording and take advantage of this content, which has already made a difference for many professionals!

It’s worth noting that attending live allows you to clarify any questions about the topic and guarantees your certificate of participation, essential for demonstrating professional development.

On the Online Meeting page, you can watch recordings of all classes offered by Controllab. Take the opportunity to subscribe to the company’s YouTube channel to stay up to date with all the content produced quickly and efficiently!

Batch-to-Batch Certification for POCTs: enhanced quality, safety, and confidence in results

admincontrollab — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 11:00:16 +0000

Learn how the initiative promotes consistent testing and offers real benefits for both testing services and manufacturers.

Confidence in test results is essential for safe clinical decision-making. Although manufacturers rigorously control the production process of their reagents and materials, lot-to-lot variations can still occur and directly impact analytical performance, potentially compromising the quality of diagnoses.

In this context, the Programa de Certificação Lote a Lote emerges as a strategic solution to ensure consistent results across reagent lots for POCTs (Point-of-Care Tests). It compares the performance of the new lot with the previous one before it is introduced into routine use, helping to prevent unwanted variations.

Why is certification essential?

Even with strict process control by the manufacturer, there are factors that can affect lot performance. Among them are:

differences in reagent reactivity;
lack of calibrators recognized as Certified Reference Materials (CRMs);
variations in the concentrations of substances on the test strips;
as well as logistical aspects and storage conditions.

These variables can compromise consistency between lots.

Benefits for those performing the test

By adopting the Batch-to-Batch Certificate, testing services gain greater confidence in lot changes, reduce internal validations, save time, and ensure compliance with CLSI EP26 and RDC 978/2025, promoting continuous compliance and quality.

Advantages for manufacturers

For manufacturers, the program technically validates lot performance, increases transparency with clients, and strengthens their competitive edge. The certification also reduces non-conformities in the field and supports healthcare services in maintaining efficiency in their analytical routines.

Shared confidence throughout the entire chain

By promoting this certification, Controllab reinforces its commitment to the safety and excellence of analytical processes, strengthening the in vitro diagnostics supply chain and ensuring greater confidence for all involved.

Want to know which manufacturers have already adopted the Batch-to-Batch Certification?

Check the table below:

To view the complete list of certified lots, please visit this link.

Want to have this advantage in your routine?

Talk to your manufacturer and request the certification. This initiative provides greater confidence in your results and contributes to more accurate and reliable diagnoses.

Proficiency Testing and Internal Control: allies in building analytical quality

admincontrollab — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 11:20:34 +0000

Understand why continuous monitoring and periodic evaluation complement each other and are essential for reliable results.

The pursuit of reliable analytical results requires more than just compliance with standards or occasional evaluations. Analytical quality must be assessed periodically and sustained daily—and this is only possible through the integration of two essential tools: Proficiency Testing (PT) and Internal Control (IC).

These tools—also known as External Quality Control (EQC) and Internal Quality Control (IQC), respectively—are pillars in managing analytical quality, directly contributing to ensuring the reliability of test results. This approach is grounded in various international standards and regulations, such as Brazil’s RDC 978/2025, which reinforces the joint application of these practices as a fundamental part of continuous monitoring and evaluation of results.

While PT assesses analytical performance at specific points in time, IC ensures the ongoing quality of results.

Together, these practices build a robust, reliable quality system aligned with regulatory requirements.

Understand the applications of PT and IC

Proficiency Testing

Conducted in scheduled rounds, PT evaluates the performance of analyses based on control samples and pre-established technical criteria. Comparison with other participants and analysis of the results allow detection and correction of analytical deviations, identification of systematic and random errors, as well as demonstrating regulatory and normative compliance.

Internal Control

With daily operation, IC enables continuous monitoring of analytical performance, identifying handling errors and allowing immediate detection of routine variations before they impact released results. It is also essential for verifying reagent degradation, sensitivity, and specificity, as well as demonstrating regulatory and normative compliance.

Why use both?

Participating in Proficiency Testing is essential but alone does not guarantee daily reliability of results.

Since PT is performed periodically, it offers only a snapshot of analytical performance. Meanwhile, IC allows continuous monitoring of test precision on a daily basis.

These tools complement each other: internal control monitors, proficiency testing evaluates.

Since PT is conducted periodically, it provides only a snapshot of the analytical performance.
Meanwhile, IC allows continuous daily monitoring of test precision.
These tools complement each other: internal control monitors, proficiency testing evaluates.

Both programs are offered by Controllab, a reference in laboratory quality control and present in over 40 countries.

Check out the programs’ key differentiators:

Proficiency Testing
Comprehensive analysis overview Free results reporting for all equipment (multiple systems) and monitoring of individual performance.
Exclusive and innovative controls Composed of multiple items at clinically relevant levels, with broad coverage of methodologies and specific analytical systems.
Management summary Facilitates the tracking and consultation of test information.
Periodic evaluation and trend graphs Allows trend analysis, prevention, and identification of causes of non-conforming results.

Internal Control
Third-party (independent) controls Materials developed independently from reagent or calibrator manufacturers, allowing an impartial and more reliable assessment of analytical performance, aligned with the practice recommended by ISO 15189.
Samples valued by interlaboratory comparison Evaluation across different systems and routines provides results closer to the true value and better reflects the laboratory’s actual variation.
Materials with clinically relevant concentrations Simulate real conditions of the laboratory routine.
Free access to CI ONLINE – An intelligent environment that enhances your routine Program enrollment grants access to a quality internal control management tool that enables real-time interlaboratory comparison, application of Westgard rules, Levey-Jennings charts, and a history of actions taken on results.

More than 3,500 assays to strengthen your routine

Controllab offers comprehensive coverage of analytical areas, from essential routines to the most advanced ones, including POCTs (point-of-care tests), enabling the application of quality control practices in services performing Clinical Analysis Exams (CAE) and other assays.

By integrating Proficiency Testing and Internal Control into the routine, the service not only meets regulatory requirements but also promotes analytical excellence.

Access our online catalog and speak with a specialist via WhatsApp: (21) 98258-0074.

Controllab 48 years: a journey of trust, evolution, and purpose

admincontrollab — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 11:20:21 +0000

Nearly half a century contributing to safer diagnostics and a better-cared-for society.

Since July 12, 1977, Controllab has held a clear purpose: to support laboratories in delivering reliable results. Nearly half a century later, this commitment has strengthened and continues to evolve, driven by the trust of thousands of professionals who share with us the value of excellence.

Celebrating 48 years is celebrating a trajectory built on ethics, innovation, and above all, partnership. Together, we transform technical, regulatory, and scientific challenges into opportunities to enhance laboratory quality.

Every program developed, every new solution, and every piece of guidance we share has a single goal: to contribute to safer diagnostics and a better-cared-for society.

On this anniversary, we thank all those who walk alongside us. You are the protagonists of this story. The trust you place in Controllab inspires us to keep moving forward, always with active listening, knowledge sharing, and a continuous pursuit of excellence.

Reaching this point is a source of pride and recognition. The support of our partners drives us to keep growing. And it is with this spirit that we open our doors to share our essence.

To celebrate Controllab’s anniversary and make the most of the 57th CBPC/ML – RJ, we invite you to learn more about our history throughout the event period.

On this occasion, we will offer guided tours of our headquarters, where you can observe the preparation of our Quality Control (QC) materials and learn about our structure.

This is an opportunity to experience the commitment behind each QC material and to understand why, for 48 years, Controllab has remained a benchmark in analytical excellence.

Soon, the sector will receive more information on how to participate in these visits.

We continue together, confident that the best is yet to come. With each step, we reaffirm our commitment to life and to the professionals who build this story with us.

Let’s keep evolving — with purpose, with partnership, side by side with you.

Check out the recording of the free class on laboratory diagnosis of mycoses

admincontrollab — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 11:10:34 +0000

An opportunity to enhance clinical reasoning and explore the challenges of diagnostic practice.

If you weren’t able to attend the live class “Laboratory Diagnosis of Mycoses: Clinical-Laboratory Reasoning in Diagnostic Practice”, take this opportunity to check out the insights from this initiative.

The recording is available and was led by Dr. Cecília Bittencourt Severo, a pharmaceutical biochemist with a PhD in Pulmonary Sciences. She is an associate professor at the Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), with 20 years of experience in the diagnosis of fungal infections and a strong background in teaching medical mycology.

What was covered in the class?

an integrated approach between clinical practice and the laboratory;
critical interpretation of direct exams, cultures, and complementary tests;
limitations and pitfalls of the main diagnostic methods;
the importance of communication with the clinical team;
challenging cases from the laboratory routine.

Clinical history makes all the difference

During the class, Dr. Cecília emphasized a key point for laboratory interpretation: the importance of clinical history at the time of analysis. She highlighted a reality still common in many services, where the laboratory receives only the biological sample — without complementary information that could properly guide the diagnostic investigation.

According to the specialist, it is the laboratory’s responsibility to drive this change: to request, systematize, and integrate at least basic clinical data into routine procedures. Information such as clinical suspicion, patient history, the location and duration of the lesion, and antifungal use are essential for a more accurate and reliable analysis.

“If this information isn’t available, the ideal is to adjust the process: create a form, call the physician, ask about the clinical suspicion, among other actions. This completely changes the course of the diagnosis,” the professor emphasized.

Haven’t watched the class yet? See why it’s making a difference!

Participants highlighted the objective approach, the professor’s expertise, and the practical contribution of the content in improving diagnostic quality.

Watch the recording now!

It’s worth noting that joining the live session allows you to ask questions about the topic and guarantees your participation certificate — an important tool to demonstrate your professional development.

On the Online Meeting page, you can access recordings of all the classes hosted by Controllab. Take advantage of this opportunity and subscribe to the company’s WhatsApp and YouTube channels to stay up to date with all the latest content delivered quickly and efficiently!

Discover Internal Quality Control with Controllab — watch the free recording!

admincontrollab — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 10:44:06 +0000

The class teaches, in practice, how to evaluate Internal Quality Control, use the Levey-Jennings chart, apply Westgard rules, and interpret data.

The recording of “Unveiling Internal Control – Part II,” a free online event hosted by Controllab, is now available.

Take this opportunity to review the key topics covered by specialist Marília Corrêa, a chemical engineer and technical analyst in Controllab’s Service Management.

This event continues the “Unveiling Internal Control – Part I” session, which introduced fundamental concepts on the subject. If you haven’t watched the first part yet, you can access the content here.

What was covered in the class?

The specialist delved into the fundamentals of Internal Control, providing examples of how to use it on the CI ONLINE platform. She also explained the criteria for data valuation, emphasizing the importance of control rules in daily laboratory routines.

The topics covered included:

Application of the Levey-Jennings chart
Use of Westgard rules
Data analysis and interpretation, along with corrective actions
Benefits of using Internal Control

According to Marília, implementing quality control in the laboratory routine goes beyond simply meeting requirements; it’s a concrete advancement in professional practice. When well-structured, this control drives continuous process improvement and enhances patient safety, leading to a more reliable and efficient environment.

She also highlighted that quality control allows for the identification of interferences and failures before they cause major impacts, facilitating the early adoption of corrective or preventive actions.

The specialist further emphasized that quality control helps the laboratory demonstrate compliance to regulatory bodies, especially regarding information traceability. This enables labs to assess whether their analytical systems remain efficient or if a methodology might need to be replaced at some point.

Another significant benefit is the generation of alerts that facilitate decision-making. Quality control quickly signals when a result is unexpected or exceeds acceptable limits, guiding professionals to intervene decisively.

As Marília pointed out, the main objective of this practice is precisely that: to guide the laboratory towards a path of continuous improvement, making it more prepared, secure, and aligned with industry best practices.

Missed the class? Here's why it's making a difference!

Attendees highlighted the objectivity, clarity, and, most importantly, the practical applicability of the content. The relevance of the topic, the specialist’s technical expertise, and the valuable insights for improving laboratory routine and quality processes were all key takeaways.

Don’t miss this opportunity to access content that can truly transform how you work in your lab’s daily routine. Watch the recording now!

It’s worth noting that participating live allows you to clarify any questions you have about the topic, and it also secures your certificate of participation, which is crucial for demonstrating your professional development.

On the Online Meeting page, you can access recordings of all the sessions promoted by Controllab. Take advantage of this chance and subscribe to the company’s WhatsApp and YouTube channels to stay completely up-to-date with all the content they produce!

CRMs Controllab: the largest portfolio in Brazil with exclusive solutions

admincontrollab — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 11:30:04 +0000

Ensure accuracy, safety, and traceability in your analytical routine.

Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) are essential to ensure measurement accuracy and result reliability in laboratories across various sectors.

With 48 years of experience, Controllab is a benchmark in laboratory quality control and offers the largest portfolio of Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) in the country. Accredited to ISO 17034 (PMR 0009), the company provides materials with a wide range of properties, exclusive solutions, and expert technical support.

Why choose Controllab's CRMs?

wide range of properties;
exclusive materials on the market;
immediate delivery;
expert technical support for CRM usage;
comprehensive and easy-to-understand certificates;
national provider with international recognition.

Applications of CRMs in Laboratory Routine:

validation and verification of analytical methods;
calibration and performance checks of equipment;
measurement quality control;
performance verification;
evidence of metrological traceability.

Exclusive Properties

Controllab offers groundbreaking CRMs in the market, such as:

Portfolio of Properties:

Chemical: pH, Conductivity, and Redox Potential (ORP)
Physical: Refractive Index, Brix Degree, Turbidity, Color, and Fusion Point
Environmental: Cyanide, Chloride, Residual Chlorine, Fluoride, Nitrate, Nitrite, Ammonia Nitrogen, Orthophosphate, Dissolved Oxygen, Salinity, Total Dissolved Solids, and Sulfate
Clinical and Biological: Qualitative Reference Cultures

Qualitative Reference Culture CRMs

It consists of over 90 strains available for quality control. These strains come from the NCTC®️ (National Collection of Type Cultures) culture collection, the oldest bacterial collection in the world, technically equivalent to ATCC®️. Both guarantee the same phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, ensuring compliance with international protocols and accreditation bodies.

These reference strains are essential for:

quality control of materials used in clinical, veterinary, food, water, pharmaceutical, and environmental testing;
validation of analytical methods;
determination of measurement uncertainty.

Benefits for CRM Users:

more reliable and traceable results;
precisely calibrated equipment;
validated performance and reliable methods;
robust documentation supporting audits and accreditations.

Each CRM comes with a certificate providing detailed information about the material, including usage conditions, transportation, shelf life, and application limits. This transparency ensures optimal use of the material in the laboratory routine.

Strategic Partner for Laboratories Pursuing Excellence

With immediate delivery, qualified technical support, and exclusive materials, Controllab’s CRMs offer a competitive advantage for laboratories and institutions that prioritize analytical quality. Contact a Controllab specialist now.

Discover what Controllab has prepared for you at the 50th CBAC

admincontrollab — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 11:10:42 +0000

Experience exclusive classes, get your questions answered by experts, and explore practices that will enhance the quality of your results.

From June 15 to 18, the 50th Brazilian Congress of Clinical Analysis – CBAC 2025 – will take place in Campinas (SP). The event brings together specialists and industry leaders to promote knowledge exchange, innovation, and best practices in clinical analysis.

Controllab – a reference in laboratory quality control – will be present with its team of experts, offering educational experiences and solutions that strengthen the reliability of analytical results and the reputation of laboratory services.

Below, discover the initiatives specially prepared for you attending the event.

Controllab workshop

On Monday, June 16, starting at 12 PM in Room 09, Controllab will host the workshop “Excellence in POCT: How to Ensure Quality and Best Practices?” led by experts José Poloni, Juliana Barroso, and Lívia Soares.

The session will cover:

POCT around the world: global context and work practices
Quality Control for POCT
Lot-to-Lot Certification: how it works and the benefits of this practice

This session is recommended for POCT manufacturers and professionals who use these systems.

Don’t miss the opportunity to broaden your perspective on POCT and adopt practices that promote consistent, safe, and market-recognized results.

Meet the experts

Visit Controllab at booth 60 during the congress and deepen your knowledge of quality control. At the booth, you’ll have the opportunity to attend short sessions on key topics for your daily practice, including:

External Quality Control
Internal Quality Control
Quality Specification
Hematology
Indicators and Benchmarking
Microbiology
Parasitology
Point-of-Care Testing (POCT)
Urinalysis

These sessions will help you read, interpret, and critically analyze quality control data, enabling safer and more effective decision-making for your laboratory.

Join the congress

Register now for the 50th CBAC and take advantage of this unique opportunity to update yourself with essential content from various areas of clinical analysis.

During the event, be sure to visit Controllab’s booth, where specialists will be available with classes and solutions that will make a difference in your routine and the quality of your results.

Don’t miss this chance to expand your knowledge and strengthen your laboratory practice. We look forward to seeing you there!

How can Controllab’s Internal Control transform your analytical routine?

admincontrollab — Tue, 20 May 2025 12:00:43 +0000

Greater speed and confidence in decision-making with third-party control, interlaboratory comparison, and results monitoring.

Laboratory diagnostic facilities undertake a continuous commitment to ensure the reliability of their results. To maintain this trust and consistency in analytical processes, participation in an Internal Quality Control (IQC) program is essential.

With 48 years of experience and presence in over 40 countries, Controllab offers the Internal Control (IC) program — a tool that promotes continuous monitoring of reproducibility during the analytical phase in the laboratory. The program helps identify and eliminate errors inherent to both quantitative and qualitative assays.

Why choose Controllab’s Internal Control?

Third-party (independent) controls.
Samples evaluated through interlaboratory comparison.
Free access to CI ONLINE with application of Westgard rules, Levey-Jennings charts, and performance history on results.

Confidence and accuracy with third-party controls and interlaboratory evaluation

Third-party internal controls are prepared by suppliers different from the manufacturers of the routine reagents or calibrators. These materials, also known as independent or unbiased controls, ensure a reliable assessment of analytical performance.

According to ISO 15189, laboratories are recommended to consider using independent, third-party IQC materials — either as a replacement or in addition to the controls provided by the reagent or instrument manufacturers themselves. These controls serve to:

Independently verify analytical performance.
Detect failures not visible with manufacturer controls.

Meet regulatory requirements and strengthen accreditation processes.

All control materials offered by Controllab are third-party, contributing to safer, more reliable laboratory practices that align with international standards.

They contain clinically relevant concentrations that simulate real conditions in the laboratory routine. Most of these materials come from Proficiency Testing (PT), which ensures interlaboratory evaluation validated across different analytical systems.

Expanded portfolio for POCT routines

In addition to supporting automated routines and other methodologies, Controllab also offers a broad range of internal controls for POCT (Point-of-Care Testing / Rapid Tests).

Although these devices typically come with a built-in verification system (integrated control), it is essential to understand the difference between Internal Quality Control and Integrated Control.

Integrated control performs automatic checks within the analytical system itself and is common in POCT equipment. It monitors, for example:

Proper sample flow;
Reagent functionality;
System integrity.

However, integrated control does not evaluate critical parameters such as:

Sensitivity (ability to detect true positives);
Specificity (ability to detect true negatives).

Internal Quality Control, on the other hand, is performed with external materials that simulate real patient samples. It allows for an independent and more comprehensive assessment of the analytical system’s performance, including:

Sensitivity and specificity of reagents;
Temperature variations;
Handling errors;
Reagent degradation.

Does integrated control replace internal control?

No. While integrated controls are useful, they do not replace internal control. They should be used as complementary tools.

To ensure result reliability, the ideal approach is to:

Use the integrated control to check system functionality.
Apply internal control to validate actual performance and identify deviations the system may not detect.

Want to enhance safety and accuracy in your analytical routine?

To achieve that, it’s important to remember that Internal Quality Control (IQC) does not replace the Proficiency Testing (PT), also known as External Quality Assessment (EQA). These tools complement each other, with PT being essential for evaluating the effectiveness of continuous monitoring.

Talk to a Controllab specialist now or click here to learn more about the Internal Control Program.

Candida auris on alert: is your laboratory routine ready?

admincontrollab — Mon, 19 May 2025 11:05:25 +0000

In the face of the rise of Candida auris, Controllab’s Proficiency Testing is an essential ally to strengthen laboratories’ diagnostic readiness.

In April 2025, Anvisa published Risk Alert GVIMS/GGTES/DIRE3/ANVISA No. 01/2025, emphasizing the need for surveillance and preparedness of healthcare services in response to the growing outbreak of Candida auris.

Classified as an emerging pathogen, this multidrug-resistant fungus has been identified in various healthcare institutions, with significant occurrences in hospital settings, requiring heightened attention from clinical laboratories regarding its accurate identification.

According to the agency, the rapid spread of Candida auris, its resistance to multiple antifungals, and the difficulty of detection by conventional laboratory methods threaten the effectiveness of infection control measures.

In this context, diagnostic accuracy is crucial for the early detection of cases and the implementation of appropriate control measures. This helps prevent the spread of the fungus, contain outbreaks, and ensure proper case management, promoting greater patient safety.

How to ensure the reliability of your Candida tests?

To support laboratories in the challenge of accurately identifying Candida auris and other relevant species, Controllab, a leader in quality control in Latin America, offers the Proficiency Testing (PT) program, also known as External Quality Control (EQC), for molecular diagnosis of Candida.

The Candida PT – Molecular Biology evaluates laboratories’ performance in conducting molecular tests, using PCR techniques for the detection and differentiation of the following species:

Candida sp.
Candida albicans
Candida auris
Candida glabrata
Candida guilliermondii
Candida krusei
Candida parapsilosis
Candida tropicalis

The samples distributed in the testing contain the complete genome of the microorganisms, simulating real clinical examination conditions. This format allows laboratories to accurately assess the performance of their routines and detect analytical deviations, contributing to the continuous improvement of processes.

Controllab’s External Quality Controls are conducted according to ISO/IEC 17043, designed to meet accreditation requirements and national regulatory standards such as the Brazilian standard RDC 786/2023, as well as international regulations.

In addition to the Candida PT – Molecular Biology, Controllab offers other programs that strengthen the reliability of analytical processes and support laboratory routines in identifying Candida and other fungi:

Epidemiological Surveillance Cultures for the detection of Candida auris.
Mycology, which includes culture, identification, and susceptibility testing for filamentous and yeast-like fungi.
Sequencing: Detection of Fungal and Yeast Genomes, using PCR-based molecular techniques and samples containing the complete genome of the microorganisms.

Want more reliability in your Candida testing?

Speak now with a Controllab specialist and discover how to elevate the quality of your analyses.

Watch the free training on Spectral Flow Cytometry

admincontrollab — Tue, 13 May 2025 11:20:43 +0000

The online class covered the fundamentals of the technology, its main advantages, and examples of applications where it has proven to be useful.

There’s still time to catch up on the use of Spectral Flow Cytometry in the analysis of cell populations and gain a better understanding of its application in diagnostic and research contexts.

The recording of the international Online Meeting “El Poder de la Citometría de Flujo Espectral” is now available.

This initiative by Controllab was conducted in Spanish by Dr. Diana Bonilla Escobar — a microbiologist with a Ph.D. in Immunology, a cytometry specialist, and the scientific director at Cytek Biosciences Inc., a biotechnology company. She is also part of the Emerging Leaders group of the International Society for Advancement of Cytometry (ISAC).

What was covered?

During the class, Dr. Diana clearly and practically explored the key aspects of spectral flow cytometry, including:

The use of spectral flow cytometry in analyzing cell populations
The technique’s applications in diagnostics and research
The fundamentals of spectral flow cytometry
The advantages of the method
Practical examples where the technique has shown strong results

In the session, Dr. Diana explained how spectral flow cytometry offers greater sensitivity, improved resolution, and the ability to combine more fluorochromes in a single sample — allowing for the simultaneous measurement of multiple proteins across various cells.

She also highlighted how this capability expands the technique’s potential in research, clinical trials, diagnostics, and translational medicine studies, making it possible to create more detailed immune profiles and identify cell groups with specific protein expressions — which is essential for biomarker discovery and advances in personalized medicine.

In addition, she emphasized the practical everyday benefits: with a single sample, much more information can be obtained, reducing costs, time, and material consumption — especially valuable for pediatric samples or those with low cellularity.

What do people say about the class?

Those who attended highly recommend it! Participants praised the clear and engaging approach to current and practical topics, led by someone who truly understands the subject. It’s a class that inspires, sparks curiosity, and reinforces the importance of continuous learning.

Assista agora mesmo

Check out the recording of the class here!

It’s worth noting that attending the live session allows you to clarify your questions about the topic and ensures you receive a certificate of participation — an important asset to demonstrate your professional development.

On the Online Meeting page, you can watch recordings of all the classes hosted by Controllab. Take advantage of this opportunity and subscribe to the company’s channels on WhatsApp and YouTube to stay up to date with all the content delivered quickly and efficiently!

Meet the certified laboratories that use comparative indicators to drive continuous improvement

admincontrollab — Tue, 06 May 2025 11:15:39 +0000

The organizations certified by Metricare demonstrate a commitment to data-driven management, promoting efficiency, safety, and sustainability in healthcare.

In 2024, more than 170 laboratories in different regions of Brazil and around the world were certified by Metricare. By actively participating, they contribute data that generates valuable metrics and insights, supporting the improvement of laboratory services and patient care.

Achieving the Metricare Participation Certificate reflects this commitment, highlighting the adoption of data-driven management practices. This recognition strengthens public trust, promotes patient safety, and differentiates laboratories in the market, aligning with the best practices of compliance and operational efficiency that benefit the entire healthcare ecosystem.

The certificate highlights:

Commitment to high standards, promoting practices that reduce risks and increase the reliability of results.
Contribution to the continuous improvement of quality in the sector, providing greater sustainability for healthcare.
Management based on metrics and benchmarking, aligned with RDC 786/2023.

Meet those who stand out for their data-driven management

Consult the list of laboratories certified by Metricare and discover which ones stand out for their data-driven management, transparency, reliability, and commitment to the continuous improvement of their processes.

Metricare in practice

Developed by Controllab and endorsed by the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology / Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML) in the laboratory module, Metricare is a comparative indicator management platform that facilitates decision-making in healthcare and wellness organizations. By monitoring performance indicators and comparing them with the market (benchmarking), organizations obtain concrete evidence to enhance their management and raise their quality standards.

An example of the impact of benchmarking can be seen in the results of the technical team productivity indicator. In 2024, half of the laboratories reported up to 5,291 tests per month per technical professional. Among the highest-performing laboratories, this number reached 9,389 tests per month, while those with lower productivity reported up to 2,911 tests per professional.

Technical Team Productivity Index (tests/month)

2.911

25% Laboratories
Lower performance

5.291

50% Laboratories
Intermediate performance

9.389

25% Laboratories
Higher performance

Source: "Technical Productivity" Indicator, comparative group producing between
50,000 to 300,000 tests/month, Metricare 2024.

This variation reinforces how comparative analysis is essential for identifying improvement opportunities. With this information, laboratories can reassess their goals, optimize processes, and increase the efficiency of their operations.

Without this strategic market perspective, performance analysis tends to be limited to internal data, making it harder to adopt pathways for improving results.

Constant monitoring of comparative indicators helps make more accurate decisions, set clear goals, and implement actions focused on continuous improvement.

Want to be part of Metricare?

By joining, your laboratory:

Gains access to anonymized strategic data that guide more accurate decisions;
Demonstrates commitment to patient safety and continuous improvement;
Strengthens its reputation with practices aligned with industry guidelines.

Start reporting data and place your organization among the laboratories that stand out in laboratory management, contributing to sector improvement.

Talk to our experts and discover how your laboratory can benefit from comparative indicator management! Contact us via WhatsApp: +55 21 98258-0074.

Controllab offers an Online Meeting on advancements and practices in hematology

admincontrollab — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:30:43 +0000

Watch the class and learn techniques and innovations that enhance the accuracy of results, strengthen quality control, and optimize laboratory routine.

The recording of the Online Meeting “Avances y Prácticas en Hematología para Laboratorios: Hemograma, Recuento Celular y Control de Calidad” is now available.

This initiative by Controllab was conducted in Spanish by Dr. Karen Montenegro Flores, a specialist in Clinical Hematology and Hemotherapy (Federal Fluminense University – Brazil), with postgraduate studies in Flow Cytometry and Hematopoietic Progenitor Transplantation (Spain, Mexico, and Brazil).

Now, you have the opportunity to expand your knowledge and explore new techniques and innovations in hematology, focusing on improving accuracy, quality control, and efficiency in your laboratory.

What was covered in the class?

The specialist presented a comprehensive approach to hematology in the clinical laboratory, exploring the fundamentals and applications of the hemogram, the techniques and tools used in cell counting, and hematoscopy, with a focus on the visualization and study of blood cells. The methods for hemoglobin measurement and their diagnostic relevance were also covered.

The meeting also addressed the following aspects:

• Quality control in hematology;
• Practical cases of hemograms and cell counts in different international contexts;
• Protocols and recent advancements in the field;
• Challenges and solutions for managing hematology laboratories in various countries.

According to Dr. Karen: “hematology is fundamental in the clinical laboratory, as it supports both the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases. The complete blood count remains a key, low-cost tool, but its correct interpretation always requires clinical correlation. It is essential to combine technology with clinical judgment, which directly contributes to improving decision-making. Therefore, knowledge, automation, and quality control must always go hand in hand. This is the foundation of our pyramid: automation and quality control ensure accurate results. The continuous education of professionals is crucial for everything we do.”

What do they say about the class?

Those who participated in the meeting highlighted that the class covered key points for current hematology practice, with clear, accessible content and direct application to laboratory routines.

Watch it right now

Check out the class recording here!

It’s important to highlight that live participation allows you to clarify any doubts about the topic discussed, in addition to ensuring your participation certificate, which is essential to demonstrate professional development.

On the Online Meeting page, you can watch recordings of all the classes promoted by Controllab. Take advantage of the opportunity and subscribe to the company’s WhatsApp and YouTube channels to stay updated on all the content produced with full agility!

Why ensure your laboratory’s reliability with Controllab’s Proficiency Testing?

admincontrollab — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 11:10:26 +0000

With a comprehensive and innovative portfolio, the company’s program is the right choice to boost your laboratory’s development and enhance your team’s performance.

Analytical accuracy is essential to ensure confidence in laboratory results, promoting safety and quality in care. This reliability is crucial across various fields, including clinical analysis, blood banking, veterinary diagnostics, microbiology, and physicochemical testing. Each analysis impacts important decisions that directly contribute to health and well-being.

That’s why participating in a Proficiency Testing (PT) program—also known as External Quality Assessment—is more than just meeting regulations; it’s a vital step toward ensuring technical quality and the reliability of your results.

Proficiency Testing (PT) that promotes analytical excellence

With 48 years of experience and a presence in over forty countries, Controllab offers Proficiency Testing (PT) — an essential tool for assessing the analytical performance of laboratories. PT is a key requirement for laboratory accreditation processes such as ISO 15189, ISO 17025, PALC-SBPC/ML, and DICQ-SBAC, as well as for complying with regulations like RDC 786/2023 in Brazil.

By participating in an external quality assessment conducted by a provider accredited to ISO/IEC 17043, laboratories align with international best practices, strengthen their reputation, and promote a high standard of quality.

Why Choose Controllab’s Proficiency Testing?

Controllab offers one of the most extensive portfolios in the world, with over 3,500 tests covering a wide range of sectors. In addition to clinical analyses, the program supports areas such as genetics, blood banks, water, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, veterinary diagnostics, food, effluents, and more.

This broad scope allows laboratories to expand their capabilities—from basic routines to specialized analyses—ensuring robust quality control aligned with global best practices.

Discover the key benefits of the program:

Continuous evaluation: regular assessments with annual targets, enabling the detection and correction of analytical deviations.
Multiple samples per round: help identify both systematic and random errors.
Exclusive and innovative controls: custom-made controls for specific systems, with multiple analytes at clinically relevant concentrations. Some controls are globally unique!
Digital microscopy: modules that leverage technology to enable the analysis of rare cases.
Data reporting for multiple systems: results can be submitted for all routine equipment.
Dynamic management insights and audit-ready processes:
strategic indicators help quickly identify tests that require immediate action. The system maintains a detailed, traceable history of all actions taken, centralizing information and streamlining audits.
Regulatory compliance: tools and documentation that demonstrate adherence to regulatory requirements, making the compliance process faster, clearer, and more efficient.
Education and specialized technical support: ongoing, free training for lab professionals, along with exclusive forums for participants. More than 100 scientific and educational advisors and a multidisciplinary technical team provide assistance and resolve inquiries.
Marketing and recognition: exclusive materials such as the Quality Control Seal (Selo CQ) highlight your participation in the program to clients and partners.
Global adaptation: translated systems and instructions, with native-language support staff.

Additionally, Controllab maintains partnerships with leading scientific institutions, such as the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML), as well as other renowned national and international organizations—reinforcing the program’s technical excellence and credibility.

Integrated solutions for simplified management

In addition to Proficiency Testing, other tools are essential to ensure analytical quality. Managing multiple providers can be challenging. With Controllab, laboratories find all the solutions they need for quality assurance in one place—bringing more convenience, efficiency, and control to their daily operations.

Explore these solutions:

Internal Quality Control: third-party (independent) controls, valued through interlaboratory comparison and with free access to CI ONLINE.
Instrument Calibration: a wide range of services with fast and efficient turnaround times.
Metricare: comparative indicators that support strategic and operational decisions, promoting continuous improvement and patient safety.
Certified Reference Material: the largest range in Brazil, including innovative solutions not found elsewhere on the market.
Reference Strains: a collection of NCTC® cultures with technical equivalence to ATCC®.
Accreditation of Clinical Laboratories: with a standard internationally recognized by ISQua.

Join Controllab’s Proficiency Testing and raise the standard of your analytical routine

Participating in Controllab’s Proficiency Testing is an opportunity for your laboratory to stand out for its quality and excellence in analyses. The program is known for its high satisfaction rates, driving technical improvement with specialized support, innovation, and efficiency.

Be part of an internationally recognized program that helps laboratories achieve analytical excellence and strengthens their credibility with clients and partners. Talk to a Controllab specialist today!

Controllab offers training on the role of the bacteriologist in tuberculosis

admincontrollab — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 11:50:59 +0000

Watch the class and discover how laboratory professionals can make a decisive contribution to combating the disease.

The recording of the Online Meeting “El rol del bacteriólogo en torno a la tuberculosis” is now available!

This initiative by Controllab, conducted in Spanish by Dr. Luisa Nieto Ramirez – a professional in Bacteriology and Clinical Laboratory from the University of Valle (Colombia) and PhD in Microbiology from Colorado State University (USA) – is an excellent opportunity for those working in clinical laboratories.

In it, you can deepen your knowledge of tuberculosis diagnostic methods, understand the current challenges in controlling the disease, and discover how laboratory professionals can play an even more strategic role in public health.

What was covered in the class?

In this initiative, Dr. Luisa discussed the evolution of tuberculosis over time and explained why it continues to be one of the leading causes of death from infectious agents. Despite medical advancements, controlling the disease remains a significant challenge for healthcare systems.

During the meeting, essential topics for laboratory practice in relation to tuberculosis were covered, such as:

• The clinical spectrum of the disease and its main developments;
• The evolution of tuberculosis epidemiology in the pre- and post-Covid-19 context;
• The main diagnostic methods available and their applications;
• The direct influence of laboratory professionals in disease detection and control;
• A practical proposal for the role of clinical laboratory professionals in addressing current challenges.

What do they say about the class?

Participants in the live class highlighted the clarity of the presentation, the relevance of the information, and the importance of the content for improving daily laboratory practices.

Watch it right now

Check out the class recording here!

Controllab offers a free class on lupus anticoagulant

admincontrollab — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 11:30:57 +0000

The Online Meeting covered essential topics for the safe and effective performance of the test.

If you missed the live broadcast, this is a great opportunity to refresh your knowledge and enhance your routine.

Controllab has already made available the recording of the Online Meeting “Laboratory Diagnosis of Lupus Anticoagulant”. The class was conducted by Dr. Rosana Cosentino Penteado, a hematologist from the Diagnostic Medicine Department at Hospital Albert Einstein, specialized in hematology and coagulation.

What was covered in the class?

During the presentation, the specialist highlighted the importance of performing the lupus anticoagulant test safely and effectively for the diagnosis of Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), especially in thrombotic events and pregnancy complications. She also emphasized that the variability of results between laboratories and reagents represents a challenge for laboratory diagnosis.

According to Dr. Rosana, “the lupus anticoagulant test is essential for diagnosing APS, a serious disease with high mortality and morbidity rates. If not diagnosed in time, it can lead to severe consequences, requiring lifelong treatment for the patient. That’s why adopting guidelines and fostering collaboration among professionals are crucial to ensure consistent results, regardless of the laboratory performing the test”.

The meeting also addressed the following aspects:

Classification criteria for APS.
Pre-analytical considerations that impact test reliability.
Recommendations for test execution, according to the 2020 ISTH guideline.
Challenges faced by laboratories in daily practice, from standardizing procedures to interpreting test results.
The importance of careful interpretation, since the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies alone does not confirm an APS diagnosis.
In-depth knowledge of the disease, which is essential for accurate diagnosis and proper patient management.

What are people saying about the class?

Everyone who attended recommends it! The feedback highlights a well-structured class with real-world applicability, led by someone who truly understands the subject — combining hands-on experience with complete mastery of the content.

Watch right now

Check out the recording of the class here!

Metricare: 20 years of innovation in healthcare data management

admincontrollab — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 11:02:31 +0000

A movement that transforms data into strategic decisions, driving efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Twenty years ago, a strong commitment to innovation and efficiency in healthcare management emerged, driving continuous improvement and patient safety. In 2005, the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML) joined forces with Controllab—a leading quality control reference in Latin America with over 47 years of expertise in data management—to create a benchmarking program for indicators. Its mission was clear: to support laboratory medicine service managers in data-driven decision-making, enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the healthcare sector.

Since the beginning of its operation, the indicators have undergone continuous improvement cycles, keeping up with technological advancements and promoting best healthcare management practices. A key milestone in this evolution was the international harmonization of indicators, aligning with the guidelines of the IFCC (International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine). This alignment propelled the program’s global advancement.

Constantly evolving to ensure data reliability and standardization, Controllab has established strategic partnerships with technology companies — meet these partners. These companies integrate their systems with the platform, minimizing errors and reducing the complexity of data collection. This allows managers to focus on what truly matters: analyzing indicators and implementing improvements that enhance service competitiveness.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the comparison of indicators stood out as a strategic ally for laboratories, being especially recognized by LabVW Laboratory. Adriana Helena Sedrez, the laboratory’s technical director, shared her experience during this challenging period, which required quick adaptation due to supply chain disruptions and changes in customer behavior. In this context, the indicators were essential for supporting strategic decision-making.

LabVW Laboratory reveals the value of comparative indicator management.

Since then, the continuous pursuit of quality and efficiency has driven the platform’s expansion, which in 2023 evolved and adopted a new name aligned with its purpose: Metricare. Aiming to serve indicators across different healthcare segments, it has become one of the most relevant benchmarking platforms in the sector, connecting over 400 organizations in 17 countries. This diversity of participants creates a rich and robust data pool, enabling more strategic, secure, and data-driven decision-making based on concrete market insights.

Partnerships that drive transformation

In addition to its partnership with SBPC/ML, Metricare also collaborates with other highly relevant institutions in the healthcare sector, such as Abramed (Brazilian Association of Diagnostic Medicine), SOBRASP (Brazilian Society for Quality of Care and Patient Safety), and CBR (Brazilian College of Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging). Together, these collaborations have been instrumental in transforming data into better decisions for the entire healthcare ecosystem.

How does benchmarking work?

Metricare is a comparative indicator management platform that simplifies decision-making for healthcare and wellness companies. By monitoring performance indicators and comparing them with the market, organizations obtain concrete evidence to improve their management and raise their quality standards.

Currently, essential metrics for laboratory management are provided, such as recollection, team productivity, delays in result delivery, incorrect reports, average ticket, performance in the Proficiency Test, among others – check out the full list with 200 performance indicators.

Metricare also provides essential microbiology data, offering 15 specific indicators that allow monitoring of processes, resources, and epidemiological aspects, such as resistance in blood cultures and surveillance cultures, as well as the positivity of blood cultures in hospitalized patients.

To illustrate the impact of benchmarking on laboratory management, we analyzed the results of the recollection indicator. In 2024, half of the laboratories reported, on average, up to 9 recollections for every 1,000 patients attended. The top-performing laboratories had up to 5 recollections, while the lowest-performing ones saw this rate triple, reaching 15 recollections.

Recollection Rate per 1,000 Patients

15

25% Laboratories
Lower performance

9

50% Laboratories
Intermediate performance

5

25% Laboratories
Best performance

Source: "General Recollection" Indicator (all laboratories), Metricare 2024.

This variation highlights the importance of comparative analysis to identify efficiency gaps. With this data, laboratories can adjust processes, set more precise goals, and improve protocols, leading to greater efficiency and a better customer experience.

Without market comparison, performance analysis could become limited, hindering the adoption of improvement actions.

Continuously monitoring indicators enables more assertive decisions, strategic goal setting, and targeted actions for continuous improvement and patient safety.

Training for laboratory efficiency

Metricare has established itself as an essential reference in data comparison, offering continuous training through both in-person and online indicator forums. These meetings equip participants with skills in data interpretation and benchmarking, in compliance with RDC 786/2023 in Brazil, while also promoting the exchange of best practices and strategies to improve laboratory efficiency.

Metricare’s global presence was also highlighted by its participation in the 2024 Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (ADLM) event in Chicago, where it presented Brazilian indicators, reinforcing the impact of benchmarking on improving the quality of laboratory services.

The future of data-driven healthcare

As it celebrates 20 years, Metricare acknowledges that its achievements are the result of partnerships with professionals and institutions that share the commitment to transforming healthcare management through data and collective intelligence.

“At Metricare, we take care with precision in everything we do, because our purpose goes beyond ourselves. We mobilize intelligence and energy to promote collective health and well-being. We do this by connecting people and knowledge, building relationships of trust and credibility. Through data and strategic information, we enable more assertive decisions, driving knowledge, competitive intelligence, and the advancement of the healthcare sector.”

Vinícius Biasoli, CEO of Controllab

To symbolize this period, our commemorative logo in 2025 will reflect our journey and the impact of data.

Metricare thanks everyone who has been part of this two-decade journey of evolution, reinforcing its commitment to transforming healthcare management. With precision and expertise in data, we continue to provide metrics and insights that guide more effective, safe, and sustainable decisions.

Do you want to be part of this movement?

Join Metricare and transform data into strategic decisions. Talk to one of our specialists on WhatsApp at +55 (21) 98258-0074.

Microbiological indicators: compare, improve, and make your laboratory more competitive!

admincontrollab — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:50:51 +0000

Monitor processes, resources, and epidemiological trends for more precise and strategic decisions.

Microbiology plays a crucial role in the clinical setting by providing essential information for medical decisions and patient treatments. Its efficiency directly impacts the satisfaction of all stakeholders, strengthening the reputation and sustainability of laboratories, which requires meticulous management to maintain quality and efficiency.

To achieve this, it is essential to rely on indicators that enable the monitoring of strategies, processes, resources, and personnel. Additionally, epidemiological indicators play a key role in public health, making the sector safer and more efficient. Adopting a data-driven approach allows for more strategic decision-making, driving laboratory competitiveness and excellence.

Discover the comparison of microbiological indicators.

Through a partnership between SBPC/ML and Controllab, microbiological indicators have been integrated into a broader set of laboratory indicators available on the Metricare platform. These indicators were developed and discussed in collaboration with renowned microbiology experts.

The data reported on the platform is anonymized and compared, then returned to participants through a ranking system and a market comparison chart, highlighting the distribution of results among participants. This allows laboratories to assess whether their reported data is above, at, or below the market average.

Comparative analysis helps identify efficiency gaps. With these insights, laboratories can refine processes, set more precise goals, and enhance protocols—leading to greater efficiency and an improved patient experience.

Without market comparison, performance analysis may be limited, making it more challenging to implement effective improvement actions.

Epidemiological Indicators: A New Perspective on Infection Control

One of the key differentiators of this initiative is its innovative approach to epidemiological indicators. These include resistance in blood cultures, surveillance cultures, and blood culture positivity in hospitalized patients. These metrics support not only laboratories but the entire healthcare ecosystem by providing valuable insights for infection prevention and control.

In addition to epidemiological indicators, the program covers various other categories, such as financial, human, and client resource management, as well as pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical processes, demographic indicators, and equipment management.

Laboratories already participating in Metricare can access this information at no additional cost, reinforcing their commitment to continuous improvement and patient safety.

Why is your participation essential?

By joining this initiative, your laboratory will gain access to exclusive and specialized microbiological data that not only enhance management and operational efficiency but also provide a strategic perspective on:

Financial and Human Resource Management: Optimize resource allocation and reduce costs with data such as Average Ticket, Outsourcing of Tests, Professional Productivity, among others.
Operational Efficiency: monitor and improve laboratory processes with data on Result Delays, Rescheduling of result deadlines, and others.
Epidemiological Indicators: track data on bacterial resistance and hospital-acquired infections to ensure better clinical outcomes.
Equipment Management: monitor the average availability of microbiology analytical equipment (Uptime).
In addition to the specific microbiology indicators, your laboratory will be able to access and monitor a broad range of indicators from Metricare, such as: organization and strategy, governance and sustainability, patient safety, financial management, operations management, resource management, stakeholder management, processes, and outcomes.

With this holistic view, laboratory management can make more informed decisions and drive even more sustainable results for the organization.

Your laboratory can become a benchmark in efficiency and strategic management. Join and lead with data!

How to participate?

Join Metricare and transform data into strategic decisions. Talk to one of our specialists on WhatsApp (21) 97901-0310.

Certified laboratories in Metricare: what sets them apart in the market?

admincontrollab — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 11:45:31 +0000

Healthcare institutions have the opportunity to highlight their commitment to continuous improvement and patient safety, earning even more public trust.

Metricare is a comparative indicator management platform that facilitates decision-making in healthcare and wellness companies. Developed by Controllab and endorsed by the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology / Laboratory Medicine in its laboratory module, the platform enables organizations to enhance their management by monitoring performance indicators and benchmarking against the market.

Comparative indicator management in practice

Metricare provides participants with essential data for laboratory management, such as sample recollection rates, team productivity, result delivery delays, incorrect reports, average ticket size, performance in Proficiency Testing, and many other indicators – check out the full list.

For example, let’s look at some data on the Result Delay Indicator:

In 2023, half of the laboratories recorded 12 delayed results per 1,000 patients.
Laboratories with lower performance had 23 delays per 1,000 patients, while those with higher performance recorded only 5 delays per 1,000 patients.

Result Delay Index per 1,000 patients

Source: "Result Delay (non-inpatient)" indicator, comparative group performing between 50,000 and 300,000 tests/month, Metricare 2023.

The result delay indicator reflects a laboratory’s efficiency in meeting deadlines and its influence on physician and patient satisfaction. Delays can compromise patient safety and the lab’s competitiveness, while shorter turnaround times demand more agile processes. Setting deadlines strategically is crucial to balancing quality, efficiency, and sustainability.

How could laboratories that recorded 12 or 23 delays per 1,000 patients reassess their internal targets without market data? Without this information, how would they understand how much they still need to improve to become more competitive and attractive to their audience?

Continuously tracking the benchmarking results of laboratory indicators enables more accurate decision-making, helping define goals and implement strategic actions. This leads to continuous improvements in processes and patient safety—a competitive advantage for laboratories that invest in quality management.

Metricare participants who have earned the Participation Certificate can now showcase this commitment to the public. Discover the certified laboratories in 2024 and see how they stand out in the market.

What does the certificate represent for your audience?

Achieving the Metricare Participation Certificate reflects a laboratory’s commitment to best management practices, driving continuous improvements that benefit patients, healthcare professionals, managers, and the entire healthcare ecosystem.

The certificate represents:

Commitment to high standards, promoting practices that reduce risks and increase result reliability.
Contribution to continuous quality improvement in the sector, ensuring greater sustainability in healthcare.
Performance indicator-based management, aligned with NBR ISO 15189.

How to use the certificate to strengthen your reputation and highlight your laboratory

Sharing this achievement enhances your laboratory’s image. By promoting it on your website, social media, and other institutional channels, you:

Demonstrate your commitment to patient safety.
Showcase compliance and efficient management practices.
Strengthen public trust.
Differentiate your laboratory in the market.

To make this easier, Controllab provides an exclusive page with suggestions on how to maximize the impact of your certification in public perception.

How does the certificate promotion page help your laboratory?

This page serves as a guide for your marketing and communication team, offering:

Guidelines on how to highlight strategic information about your certificate.
Text and post suggestions, making communication on social media and other media platforms easier.

Start showcasing your competitive advantage now

Take advantage of the exclusive page with practical suggestions to highlight your Metricare Participation Certificate. Explore this resource and increase your visibility in the market!

Your audience needs to know about your commitment!

Not yet part of Metricare?

Gain access to strategic data that drive smart decisions, highlight your commitment to continuous improvement and patient safety, and strengthen your laboratory’s reputation.
Start reporting data now and position your institution among the leading laboratories in quality management, contributing to sector improvement.

Speak with our specialists and discover how your laboratory can benefit from comparative indicator management. Contact us via WhatsApp: +55 21 98258-0074!

How to ensure reliability in allergy and intolerance tests?

admincontrollab — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 11:32:21 +0000

To ensure reliable laboratory tests, laboratories must adopt well-controlled methodologies and rigorously monitor analytical performance.

Millions of people live with allergies daily, facing reactions that range from mild discomforts to significant impacts on quality of life. To ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatments, reliable laboratory tests are essential.

The WHO estimates that 70% of medical decisions are based on laboratory tests. However, for laboratory tests to contribute to safe medical practices, it is crucial to ensure quality at every stage of the process.

The quality of these tests depends on the adoption of strict controls that guarantee the reproducibility and accuracy of results – a key step in providing better well-being for patients.

How to ensure the reliability of your tests?

Controllab, a leader in laboratory quality control in Latin America, offers Proficiency Testing (PT) programs, also known as External Quality Control (EQC) and Internal Quality Control (IQC), specialized in monitoring the analytical performance of different allergens and food intolerances.

Discover the allergy programs available:

Programs	Available Tests	Available Services
Allergy I	Dust Mites and Dust
Allergy II	Seafood and Fish
Allergy III	Animal Epithelia
Allergy IV	Fungi and Yeasts
Allergy V	Dairy, Eggs, and Wheat
Allergy VI	Insects
Allergy VII	Oily Seeds and Nuts
Allergy VIII	Fruits
Allergy IX	Food Colorants

Proficiency Testing, also known as External Quality Control.Internal Control

In addition to the allergy-focused programs, Controllab also offers solutions for evaluating intolerance tests, allowing laboratories to expand their operations with safety and reliability:

Food Intolerance
Evaluation of IgG antibodies specific to 217 foods.

Genetic Lactose Intolerance
Analysis of the 13910 mutation, associated with lactase persistence.

Controllab provides third-party internal controls that make a difference. These materials identify variations that go unnoticed by analytical system manufacturers, offering more reliable analysis. These controls typically include interlaboratory results across different systems and faithfully reproduce the performance of patient samples.

Controllab’s External Controls are conducted according to ISO/IEC 17043. Both these and the Internal Controls provided by the company are designed to meet national regulatory requirements, such as the Brazilian standard RDC 786/2023, as well as international standards.

These programs help laboratories monitor the quality of their tests, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and continuous improvement in analytical performance.

Want more reliability in your allergy and intolerance tests?

Talk to a Controllab specialist now and discover how to elevate the quality of your analyses.

How to enhance laboratory quality and advance your career with Controllab’s training programs

admincontrollab — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 11:20:17 +0000

The company provides a variety of free specialized content that supports professional development and team training.

Decisions in analytical routines directly impact the reliability of test results and, consequently, patient safety. Continuous professional qualification is essential to ensure reliable laboratory outcomes and keep up with the evolution of the sector.

Committed to promoting the quality of exams, Controllab offers a variety of educational initiatives for professional development and the enhancement of laboratory activities. With the support of renowned experts and a solid educational structure, the company provides regular content for multiple sectors, such as clinical, blood banks, veterinary, microbiology, and physical-chemical testing. These free materials promote continuous training and keep professionals updated on standards and regulations.

Books to excel as a professional in laboratory quality

The exclusive collection “Managing the Analytical Phase of the Laboratory – How to Ensure Quality in Practice” is an essential guide for professionals who wish to enhance their knowledge and adopt effective management tools in the laboratory routine. Comprising three volumes, this work aids in the understanding and application of strategies to ensure the quality of analytical results.

By exploring this collection, professionals will be able to structure a more efficient management of analytical quality, preventing errors and standardizing workflows. Additionally, they will learn how to develop effective procedures, conduct audits with greater precision, and implement quality indicators to monitor data and metrics. This will enable them to identify improvements, reduce rework, and minimize non-conformities, leading to more informed decision-making.

Audiovisual materials for professional development and team training

Controllab offers initiatives in audiovisual format, available for free on its website. This approach allows professionals to learn at their own pace. The content includes lectures and discussions on various topics such as best practices, quality management tools, microbiological counting techniques, molecular diagnostics, complete blood count, urinalysis, POCT, pH measurement, RDC 786/2023, CFMV 1374/2020, arboviruses, instrument calibration, and more.

Explore the initiatives and take advantage of the content to engage and train your team, share best practices, and encourage a culture of quality.

• Talking A: Recorded interviews with industry experts, providing insights and relevant information for the laboratory sector.

• Online Meeting: Free online classes taught by guest experts, covering topics pertinent to the analytical routine.

These meetings, lasting one hour, are pre-announced on the company’s digital channels.

In addition to live interaction, participants receive certification. The recordings are later made available on the website.

Atlas with high-resolution images of structural references

These materials are an excellent reference source for professionals in the laboratory sector. Identifying structures requires a keen eye and, often, specific experience to distinguish between different types of cells and particles.

The mini-atlases on parasitology, urinalysis, and hematology allow the file to be downloaded for consultation at the bench.

They are also available in the Controllab website gallery. There, users can access the material and explore a vast collection of high-resolution images, which can be zoomed in for a more detailed view of the structures.

This format serves as a learning guide for teams, providing a valuable source of training.

Exclusive training for Controllab clients

In addition to the training sessions open to the public, Controllab clients have access to exclusive online forums. These meetings are dedicated to in-depth discussions on the use of solutions (Proficiency Testing, Metricare, and others), fostering valuable exchanges between users and experts, with certificates issued to participants, highlighting the professional’s commitment to quality.

Complementary materials and knowledge management

In addition to the mentioned training sessions, the “Education” section of the Controllab website offers other complementary materials, such as articles, newsletters, and more. These resources are essential references in the daily laboratory routine, enriching analytical activities and fostering a continuous learning environment.

Excellence in quality is a continuous journey! To ensure safer and more efficient processes, it is crucial to invest in the professional training of teams. Follow our channels and receive these updates in real time:

Controllab offers free training on lupus anticoagulant

admincontrollab — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 12:45:38 +0000

Participate in the initiative and enhance the execution of the test according to international recommendations!

Controllab will host the online meeting “Laboratory Diagnosis of Lupus Anticoagulant” on March 20th (Thursday) at 3:00 PM (Brasília time).

This online and free initiative will be led by Dr. Rosana Cosentino Penteado, a hematologist working in the Diagnostic Medicine Department at the Albert Einstein Hospital, specializing in hematology and coagulation.

Take advantage of this opportunity to expand your knowledge and obtain a certificate that demonstrates your professional update!

What topics will be covered?

During the event, essential topics for the safe and efficient execution of the lupus anticoagulant test will be discussed, including:

The importance of the lupus anticoagulant test for the diagnosis of APS;
Test indications;
Pre-analytical considerations;
Test execution recommendations according to the ISTH 2020 guidelines;
Challenges faced by routine laboratories.

Why should you participate?

Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn about and discuss international recommendations on the lupus anticoagulant test, enhance your knowledge with an expert, and obtain a certificate that demonstrates your professional update.

How will this event help participants in their daily routine?

This event will allow participants to verify whether the test execution steps are aligned with international guidelines.

The update will provide an opportunity to review processes, identify critical points, standardize workflows, and develop more efficient procedures.

Join live and receive your certificate!

Secure your spot now through this link, as availability is limited!

The event will last 60 minutes, followed by an additional 20 minutes for Q&A. By attending the live session, you will receive a participation certificate, demonstrating your professional update.

We look forward to seeing you!

How quality control becomes a competitive differentiator for veterinary laboratories

admincontrollab — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 11:25:45 +0000

Investing in quality reinforces trust, safety, and diagnostic accuracy for the public.

With so many veterinary laboratories in the market, how can you stand out? In an increasingly competitive landscape, the credibility of tests is essential to attract and retain clients. Veterinarians and pet owners rely on these results to make safe decisions about animal health. Quality control is the key to ensuring this safety, as well as optimizing processes and increasing operational efficiency.

Laboratories that adopt quality control practices demonstrate a commitment to analytical excellence, ensuring that their results are reliable and contribute to accurate diagnoses. This not only adds value to the laboratory’s image but also provides a relevant competitive differentiator for the audience seeking services with high safety standards.

Compliance with standards and strengthening of credibility

In addition to the commitment to analytical excellence, the implementation of quality control complies with technical and regulatory standards, such as Brazilian Resolution CFMV nº 1374/2020, which strengthens the laboratory’s credibility with the public. The excerpt from the resolution highlights:

“Art. 17. Laboratories and their branches must ensure the reliability of the laboratory services provided, through internal quality control and external quality control.”

Compliance with this legislation is not just a matter of legal adequacy, but also a way to demonstrate the seriousness and technical responsibility of the institution.

Quality control in practice: solutions for veterinary laboratories

Controllab, a leader in laboratory quality control in Latin America, offers solutions that strengthen the quality of analytical processes in veterinary laboratories, setting them apart in the market:

• Proficiency Testing (External Control): Periodic external assessment to ensure the accuracy of results. By participating in an external control led by a provider recognized by ISO 17043, the laboratory follows a program aligned with international best practices. These practices ensure greater safety, helping identify errors in analyses that may impact patient reports.

• Internal Control: Continuous monitoring to identify and correct routine errors. By integrating internal control into analytical processes, the laboratory ensures consistency of results, keeping variability under control and preventing deviations related to batch changes, reagent and calibrator stability. Additionally, this practice strengthens the monitoring of processes by the team.

• Instrument Calibration: Verification to prevent measurement errors. This process ensures that the instrument’s performance aligns with expected standards and is suitable for use, preventing deviations in analysis processes. Furthermore, it contributes to cost reduction, increased productivity, and avoids rework.

Additionally, users of Controllab’s quality control programs have access to periodic educational questionnaires and other free initiatives that empower professionals and help improve their laboratory practices.

Investing in quality control with Controllab demonstrates the laboratory’s commitment to its audience, ensuring trust, safety, and excellence in results. This means:

• Veterinarians are more confident in making clinical decisions.
• Pet owners feel secure when receiving accurate diagnoses for their animals.
• Patients are treated with precision and safety.

By offering high-quality analyses, your laboratory strengthens its position in the market, gains trust in the sector, and differentiates itself from the competition.

Raise the standard of your laboratory and showcase the excellence of your results to your audience.

Access our programs or speak now with a Controllab specialist.

Dengue diagnosis: why is the reliability of reports essential?

admincontrollab — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 12:20:39 +0000

The analytical quality of tests directly impacts the accuracy of diagnosis and the safety of clinical decisions.

According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), to date, the number of dengue cases in Latin America and Brazil has not exceeded the figures recorded during the same period in 2024. However, considering last year’s record increase, countries in the region begin 2025 on alert for the possibility of a new outbreak.

Factors such as climate change, uncontrolled urbanization, and improper waste management continue to drive the proliferation of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the disease vector. In this context, services performing the test must prepare for a potential increase in demand for these analyses.

Correct identification of dengue cases and differentiation of serotypes are crucial for effective diagnosis, considering the disease’s varied manifestations, ranging from asymptomatic to severe, with a risk of death. Therefore, analytical quality in tests is essential to avoid errors that could compromise medical decisions.

Comprehensive solutions for accurate reports

In light of the potential high demand for dengue tests, services must ensure the reliability of analytical processes to issue secure reports. Controllab, a leader in laboratory quality control in Latin America, offers comprehensive solutions for various dengue detection methodologies, such as serologies (IgG, IgM, NS1 Antigen), molecular biology, and POCT (Point-of-Care Testing).

Highlights of the Proficiency Test for Dengue

For the Proficiency Testing (EP), also known as External Quality Control (EQC), in the Dengue – Molecular Biology program, participants identify the serotype through genotyping. The PT Sequencing: Viral Genome Detection sends alternating samples of epidemiologically relevant viruses, including the dengue serotypes.

Reliability in dengue testing with external and internal quality control

In addition to External Control, the reliability of diagnostic routines depends on continuous monitoring with Internal Control (CI) of quality.

Controllab provides third-party internal controls that make a difference. These materials identify variations that may be overlooked by manufacturers of analytical systems, offering more reliable analysis. These controls typically include interlaboratory results from different systems and faithfully reproduce the performance of patient samples.

Discover Controllab’s programs that ensure more reliable reports and more effective control of the dengue analytical routine:

Programs	Available tests	Available services
Dengue	Serology of IgG and IgM antibodies (automation)
Dengue NS1	NS1 Antigen (automation)
Dengue – Molecular Biology	Detection and Genotyping of Types 1, 2, 3, and 4
Sequencing: Viral Genome Detection	Genotypic identification of epidemiologically relevant viruses
POCT Dengue	Serology of IgG and IgM antibodies
POCT Dengue NS1	NS1 Antigen

Proficiency Testing, also known as External Quality Control.Internal Control

Incorporate certified batches into your dengue POCT analytical routine

The Lot-by-Lot Certification Program has strengthened confidence in the analytical routines of POCT devices. It validates the performance of new batches compared to previous ones, reducing costs and efforts to monitor reagent changes, while ensuring the quality and reliability of the tests.

Certification prevents the inclusion of batches with deviations that could compromise results. This provides greater confidence in your routine and enhanced safety for your patients. To identify certified batches for dengue, please access this link.

Dengue and Other Arboviral Diseases

In addition to dengue, it is essential to maintain a reliable analytical routine to detect other circulating arboviral diseases, such as Chikungunya, Zika, and Oropouche. These tests are crucial for differential diagnosis and serve as exclusion criteria in clinical investigations, assisting doctors and laboratories in making more accurate and secure decisions.
To support the precise detection of these diseases, Controllab offers solutions that enhance the reliability of analytical processes:

• POCT Zika Virus – Immunology
• Zika Virus – Molecular Biology
• Zika Virus – Immunology
• Chikungunya – Molecular Biology
• Chikungunya – Immunology
• Oropouche Virus – Molecular Biology

Looking for more reliability in your dengue tests?

Contact a Controllab specialist now and discover how to enhance the quality of your analyses.

Controllab Proficiency Certificate: Turn credibility into visibility for your laboratory!

admincontrollab — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 12:45:21 +0000

Certified establishments have the opportunity to highlight their commitment to quality and accuracy, gaining even more trust from the public.

Achieving the Proficiency Certificate is not just a technical requirement; it is a powerful tool to strengthen your laboratory’s credibility. It proves the quality of the analyses and the reliability of the results, conveying more confidence to clients and partners. But how can you turn this certification into a differentiator that attracts and retains your audience?

What does the Proficiency Certificate represent for the laboratory’s public?

The Proficiency Certificate is a guarantee of quality for those who trust the laboratory’s services. It communicates credibility, security, and commitment to excellence, making it a competitive differentiator for various audiences:

For doctors, clinics, and hospitals (human and veterinary): it ensures that test results are reliable, assisting in the accuracy of diagnoses and treatments.
For regulated industries and companies (pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, environmental, among others): it demonstrates compliance with standards and best practices, adding value to laboratory analyses.
For patients and end consumers: it guarantees that tests are conducted with rigor and precision, increasing trust in the laboratory.
For regulatory and accrediting bodies: it strengthens the laboratory’s commitment to the quality standards required by the industry.

Regardless of the sector, the Proficiency Certificate positions the laboratory as a market leader, strengthening its credibility and attracting more opportunities.

How to use the certificate to strengthen your laboratory's reputation and stand out?

Promoting the Proficiency Certificate is a strategic way to strengthen your laboratory’s reputation and differentiate it in the market. By sharing it through institutional channels, such as websites and social media, you:

Demonstrate commitment to quality and excellence in analyses.
Reinforce the trust of clients and partners in the accuracy of results.
Position your laboratory as a reference in the sector, highlighting its adherence to best practices.

To facilitate this promotion, Controllab provides an exclusive page with suggestions on how to highlight the differentiators of your certificate, helping to maximize the impact of the certification on your audience’s perception.

How does the certificate promotion page help your laboratory?

This page serves as a guide for the professionals responsible for marketing and communication at your laboratory, offering:

Highlights of strategic elements of the certificate to reinforce its credibility.
Information about the Quality Control Seal, which complements the certification.
Text and post suggestions, making communication easier on social media and other laboratory channels.

Ready to enhance your certificate?

Take advantage of our exclusive page with strategic suggestions to highlight the Proficiency Certificate and strengthen your laboratory’s credibility. Explore this resource and increase your visibility in the market!

Not yet part of Controllab’s Proficiency Testing?

Don’t miss the chance to boost confidence in your results! Participating in the Proficiency Testing is an essential step to ensure quality and stand out in the sector. Talk to our experts and find out how your laboratory can benefit. Contact us via WhatsApp: +55 21 98258-0074.

The specialist reveals the benefits of the integration between TCM and Metricare for laboratories

admincontrollab — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 11:00:24 +0000

The interview highlights how the partnership strengthens management and drives laboratory growth.

Continuing the series of exclusive interviews with technology companies accredited by the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML) and Controllab, which integrate data into Metricare—a platform that supports healthcare organizations in the comparative analysis of laboratory indicators—this edition of Talking A features Fernando Requi Benato, systems analyst and developer at TCM Informática, in an interview conducted by José Poloni, educational manager at Controllab.

Founded in 1988, TCM Informática is driven by a mission of constant innovation, providing high-quality solutions across all stages of the laboratory process—pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical. This enables its clients to focus on conducting tests with precision and safety.

Integration with Metricare and enhanced management

Currently, TCM offers 14 indicators integrated with Metricare, providing laboratories with dynamic and practical access to the comparison of relevant data. According to Fernando, the company’s goal is to expand this integration in response to the growing interest from users for information related to sample collection and laboratory management.

– We have integration with our two systems available in the market – Esmeralda Visual and Esmeralda Connect – and it works perfectly. This makes it very easy for the user to take full advantage of the benefits that Metricare offers to assist in laboratory management, he stated.

Among the benefits, the integration reduces the complexity of data collection and provides better access to information, resulting in more efficient and reliable processes. As a result, there is more time available for benchmarking analysis and for implementing actions that make the laboratory more competitive.

Moreover, the implementation of clear metrics and the comparative analysis of indicators not only contribute to more accurate decisions but also assist laboratories in complying with RDC 786/2023.

The specialist also emphasized that “every manager should use Metricare, as it is an essential tool to assist in the management and continuous growth of the laboratory.”

Watch it now

Check out this special approach on the Talking About Quality link and expand your perspective on the use of data in your business. Discover how Metricare, in partnership with technology companies, can drive the results of your healthcare establishment!

Take the opportunity to subscribe to the Controllab YouTube channel to access the latest published content firsthand.

Controllab’s CRMs ensure reliability and quality in analytical planning

admincontrollab — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 13:49:53 +0000

The company’s Certified Reference Materials (CRMs), available in chemical, physical, environmental, and microbiological properties, offer exclusive solutions with immediate delivery.

Controllab, a benchmark in quality control for testing, offers Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) that ensure analytical quality, precise, and reliable results. With over 47 years of experience, the company boasts the largest range of CRMs in Brazil, establishing itself as a strategic partner for institutions seeking analytical excellence.

The company offers exclusive solutions to the market, such as the 1.50 µS/cm Electrolytic Conductivity solution.

What are the benefits of CRMs?

Certified Reference Materials are essential tools for:

Validating and verifying new methodologies or equipment;
Controlling the quality of measurements;
Calibrating and verifying equipment;
Demonstrating metrological traceability.

Additionally, the CRMs come with a detailed certificate that provides various analytical insights. The CRMs are developed in accordance with international criteria established by ISO 17034, under which Controllab holds the PMR 0009 accreditation.

What are the properties of Controllab's CRMs?

Chemistry: pH, Conductivity, and Redox Potential (ORP).
Physics: Refractive Index and Brix Degree, Turbidity, Color, and Fusion Point.
Environmental: Cyanide, Chloride, Residual Chlorine, Fluoride, Nitrate, Nitrite, Ammoniacal Nitrogen, Orthophosphate, Dissolved Oxygen, Salinity, Total Dissolved Solids, and Sulfate.
Clinical and Biological: CRM Qualitative Reference Cultures.

The Qualitative Reference Culture CRMs consist of over 90 strains essential for quality control in:

Clinical and veterinary diagnostic testing;
Microbiological analysis of food, water, pharmaceutical products, and the environment.

The strains are sourced from the NCTC®️ (National Collection of Type Cultures), the world’s oldest bacterial collection, with technical equivalence to the ATCC®️. Both ensure the same phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, ensuring compliance with international protocols and accrediting bodies.

How do CRMs drive analytical excellence?

By using CRMs, laboratories ensure process standardization and alignment with global best practices. This variety of materials offered by Controllab reflects its commitment to providing solutions that promote comprehensive and effective laboratory quality control.

Discover how CRMs can meet the needs of your laboratory

Controllab’s mission is to provide excellence-driven solutions for its clients. Speak with a specialist now and see how CRMs can transform your laboratory’s analytical routine, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of your processes.

Refine your skills in the selection and implementation of POCT tests

admincontrollab — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 11:40:42 +0000

A free online meeting covered the selection of devices, traceability, regulatory requirements, and other essential aspects of the topic.

Controllab has made available the recording of the lecture “Criteria for Selecting POCT Tests” delivered by Dr. Márcio dos Santos Damascena, a biomedical professional and coordinator of advanced units at Hospital Albert Einstein, with 20 years of experience in clinical analysis.

During the session, Dr. Márcio highlighted key points for optimizing analytical workflows and ensuring regulatory compliance. He addressed topics such as:

Collection and types of samples eligible for different service types;
Device selection;
Complexity in accordance with RDC 786/2023 and the PALC standard;
Traceability;
Benefits of connectivity;
Responsibilities of the Point-of-Care coordinator.

While detailing the criteria for selecting POCT devices, the expert emphasized the need for rigorous planning aligned with current regulations and the continuous training of teams. He stressed that devices must include quality Internal Control (CI) and participate in Proficiency Testing (PT) programs—essential elements for ensuring the reliability of results and patient safety.

Additionally, Dr. Márcio underscored the importance of following manufacturer recommendations. In the absence of specific guidelines, he advised performing internal quality control monthly, as well as with each lot change or device modification, in accordance with criteria established by accreditation processes.

Lot-to-Lot Validation for POCTs

A relevant discussion, raised from the participants’ questions during the meeting, highlighted the importance of validating the current lot in relation to the performance of the previous lot. Due to the nature of the samples used in these devices, it is often not possible to preserve the same sample for future validations. In this context, the benefits of the Lot-to-Lot Certification Program offered by Controllab were mentioned. This program ensures the consistency of POCT lots in comparison to previous ones from the same manufacturer, providing increased speed and greater reliability to the routine.

The topics discussed helped clarify doubts and deepen the professionals’ understanding of the criteria for selecting and validating POCT tests. The meeting was evaluated by the participants as an opportunity that highlighted relevant and precise aspects, with full applicability to the analytical routine of these devices.

Watch Now

Check out the recording of the class and enhance your skills in the selection and implementation of POCT tests!

It is worth highlighting that live participation allows you to clarify any questions about the topic discussed, improve your analytical routine, and secure your participation certificate, which is essential for demonstrating professional development.

On the Online Meeting page, you can watch recordings of all the classes promoted by Controllab. Take advantage of this opportunity and subscribe to the company’s channels on WhatsApp and YouTube to stay updated on all the content produced with maximum efficiency!

Metricare users consolidate their knowledge and strengthen their organizations in the segment

admincontrollab — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 11:10:49 +0000

The Online Forum on comparative indicator management covered practical and strategic cases to boost the efficiency and competitiveness of laboratories.

Metricare, a platform supporting healthcare organizations in the comparative analysis of laboratory indicators, hosted a series of Online Forums for its users in 2024. These events have become a strategic initiative, equipping participants with the skills to interpret data while incorporating a market benchmarking perspective, in compliance with the Brazilian regulation RDC 786/2023. Recent editions focused on enhancing users’ understanding of the significance and application of the Proficiency Testing and Average Ticket indicators.

Proficiency Testing: ensuring excellence in quality and reliability in results

In October, the forum addressed the Proficiency Testing (PT) indicator, essential for maintaining excellence in laboratory quality standards.

Ana Paula Gomes, accreditation and indicators supervisor at Controllab, demonstrated how to calculate and interpret internal results of this indicator against market benchmarks. She also highlighted strategies to leverage these insights for improving laboratory processes. During her presentation, she emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring—not only to identify and correct failures but also to recognize successes and turn them into best practices, fostering continuous improvement in laboratory management.

Average Ticket: a financial and strategic perspective

n November, the forum shifted focus to the Average Ticket per Patient Served indicator, critical for laboratory sustainability and competitiveness.

Fernando Berlitz, accreditation and indicators manager at Controllab, highlighted that while financial indicators are often exclusively associated with the finance department, they are, in fact, fundamental across the entire organization, as they reflect the effectiveness of implemented strategies and the level of customer satisfaction. Moreover, he emphasized the importance of interpreting the Average Ticket within the benchmarking context, enabling laboratories to assess their strategies and enhance the customer experience, with a direct impact on profitability.

According to Berlitz, “Behind any adequate financial result lies a satisfied patient or client. When we address financial indicators, we are evaluating the outcome of a successful operation. In other words, we assess whether we are meeting client needs as planned and according to their key requirements. Our focus is on patient safety and customer satisfaction to ensure our business remains sustainable. Financial indicators provide us with this metric, this more quantitative assessment of how effectively we are managing our business.”

Exchange of knowledge and valuable experiences

The forums stood out for the active participation of professionals who contributed questions and shared best practices. This exchange was essential for deepening the understanding of indicators and strengthening the comparative analysis of market data, offering a broad business perspective.

Through these initiatives, Controllab, the company behind Metricare, reaffirms its commitment to enhancing laboratory operations by promoting not only the qualified use of the platform but also the development of strategic management practices based on comparative market data. These events empower laboratories to identify gaps, optimize processes, and adopt practices that enhance service quality and financial sustainability.

Want to improve your laboratory’s efficiency and join this group leading the market? Visit metricare.com.br/en/ to learn more.

Interview with Softeasy highlights its contribution to efficiency in the laboratory sector

admincontrollab — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 11:21:45 +0000

The company’s business manager emphasizes the importance of the partnership with Metricare in fostering continuous improvement in the healthcare sector.

In the latest episode of Talking A, José Poloni, Educational Manager at Controllab, hosts Edgard Diniz Borges, Business Manager at Softeasy. This conversation is part of a series of exclusive interviews with technology companies certified by the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML) and Controllab, which support data integration with Metricare, a platform that assists healthcare organizations in comparing indicators. During the interview, Edgard highlights the benefits of this integration for strategic and efficient laboratory management.

Softeasy, founded in 2005 with nearly 20 years of market experience, is a leading provider of laboratory information system solutions. The company’s purpose is to simplify the daily operations of laboratories through its portfolio of technological products that enhance efficiency and promote the digitization of manual processes.

Partnership with Metricare and benefits for the laboratory sector

With 10 indicators initially integrated into Metricare, Softeasy continues to expand the scope of this initiative. Through this partnership, laboratories can already compare their expenses with physical space and resources, personnel costs, average time between equipment failures, and the number of preventive and corrective maintenance actions, without requiring additional effort or time from the team to gather this information.

The integration not only optimizes process efficiency but also ensures greater data security and reliability. As a result, more time is available for benchmarking analysis and implementing actions that make the laboratory more competitive.

The application of clear, quantifiable, and comparative metrics not only enables more accurate decision-making for managers but also ensures compliance with RDC 786/2023.

Distinctive solutions

During the interview, Edgard emphasized that, in addition to utilizing cutting-edge technology, Softeasy also stands out for its personalized service, offering specialized support and weekly progress reports, which bring benefits to both the laboratory and its clients.

“This approach facilitates communication between the laboratory and its clients, providing a clear view of data and reports, which enables quick and accurate decision-making,” he states.

Watch Now

Check out this special approach on the Talking About Quality link and transform the way you use data for your business. Learn how Metricare, in partnership with technology companies, can boost the results of your healthcare facility!

Award-winning study by Dr. Marcio Mendes Biasoli improves patient safety

admincontrollab — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 11:10:20 +0000

Hospital Felício Rocho, which presented an innovative work on medical alert communication at the 56th CBPC/ML, stood out in the award named after the founder of Controllab.

Between September 10 and 13, the 56th Brazilian Congress of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine – CBPC/ML – took place in Salvador, BA. As in all editions of the Congress, the Free Themes session is always one of the most competitive; this year, around 550 papers were submitted.

The director of education at SBPC/ML, Dr. Leonardo Vasconcellos, explains that the Free Themes session is essential for the congress: “it shows us how our colleagues are working, whether by validating products, reporting a clinical case or a case series, comparing methods, or presenting clinical-laboratory innovations.” He also emphasizes: “these are the trends in our field or topics that may have relevance for public health.”

Award for Free Themes

As a form of recognition, seven papers are chosen to receive special awards, named after prominent figures in laboratory medicine.

This year, SBPC/ML created the “Dr. Marcio Mendes Biasoli: Proficiency Testing and Laboratory Indicators” award. The goal was to celebrate the career and legacy of a professional who dedicated his life to promoting reliability in laboratory quality control processes, presiding over Controllab, a reference in quality control in Latin America, for more than 44 years.

Vinicius Biasoli, his son and CEO of Controllab, highlighted: “The award goes beyond Proficiency Testing, Laboratory Indicators, Internal Control, or any other quality control tool. It represents ethics, humanity, innovation, education, and pioneering.”

Award-winning work

The work titled “Practices in Medical Alert Communication by the Clinical Laboratory in a Hospital Setting,” conducted by Hospital Felício Rocho, won the Dr. Marcio Mendes Biasoli Award.

This study, led by Dr. Simone Martins Gonçalves, along with co-authors Flavia Cristina Dias, Laiz Elena Brasil Marzano, Carla Alessandra da Rocha Costa, Manuela Batista Pereira, Nayara Barbosa Alves, João Rodrigo Campos, and Rúbia Rafaela Terra, stood out for its innovation in using automation for medical alerts, implemented through parameterization in the laboratory software of the technology company Matrix.

Dr. Simone commented on the importance of this innovative practice: “The work stemmed from the challenge of expanding tools for alert communication with assertive and simultaneous reach for both the multidisciplinary team and doctors, in order to ensure clinical governance, addressing the ongoing complaints from the operational team about the failures in conveying information through traditional phone calls.”

Automation in medical alert communication

The new automated approach allows alerts to reach doctors and multidisciplinary teams simultaneously, facilitating an immediate response.

Regarding this transformation, Dr. Simone explains: “With automation, we were able to eliminate errors that occurred due to incorrect transcriptions or oral communication failures. This not only optimized our time but also brought more security to our routine, ensuring that the doctor and the multidisciplinary team receive the information at the same time and clearly. Additionally, it is no longer necessary for professionals to spend time manually transmitting data, which has freed up space for other important activities, such as Stewardship practices in microbiology.”

Impact on indicators and patient safety

Automation also brought measurable results in the laboratory’s efficiency indicators.

According to Dr. Simone, a significant reduction in response time for critical results was observed, with notifications being received within an hour. This reduced time is essential for making quick and assertive decisions in favor of patient safety.

She also emphasizes the importance of team adherence: “An indicator that, in our view, managers should pay close attention to is the Team Satisfaction Percentage in Internal Surveys. In our laboratory’s case, team adherence was satisfactory, with voluntary reports indicating that the automation in communication practices was concrete evidence of valuing the team’s feedback.”

The legacy of Marcio Mendes Biasoli

In light of the award, Dr. Simone reflects on the personal and professional significance of this recognition: “When we were informed about the Dr. Marcio Mendes Biasoli Award, in the Proficiency Testing and Indicators category, we were literally overflowing with joy. It was a celebration, as the entire team recognizes that the image of Dr. Marcio Mendes Biasoli embodies commitment to quality and the mission of providing precision medicine in test tubes.”

The award-winning work highlights the positive impact of automation in laboratory medicine, inspiring continuous improvements and reinforcing the importance of quality and safety in hospital care.

May the values represented in the Dr. Marcio Mendes Biasoli Award continue to inspire professionals in the field to enhance their practices and promote reliability in laboratory quality control processes.

Controllab reaffirms its commitment to preserving life during SIPAT 2024

admincontrollab — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 12:20:01 +0000

The initiative aims to prevent accidents and occupational diseases, promoting well-being in the workplace.

Recently, Controllab reinforced its commitment to preserving life by holding the annual Internal Week for the Prevention of Occupational Accidents (SIPAT). Organized by the Internal Commission for the Prevention of Accidents and Harassment (CIPA), in partnership with the team from Specialized Services in Occupational Safety and Medicine (SESMT), the event aimed to promote the prevention of accidents and occupational diseases, as well as strengthen the culture of safety and well-being in the corporate environment.

CIPA, composed of representatives from various company sectors, plays a key role in identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing actions to ensure a safer and healthier work environment.

The SESMT team at Controllab contributes with the technical and regulatory knowledge provided to CIPA members, which is essential for risk assessment and the adoption of preventive and corrective measures. This collaborative work is crucial for protecting employees and aligning company practices with established safety standards.

Partnerships for Knowledge Promotion

SIPAT is one of the essential actions to strengthen the culture of safety and well-being in the workplace. Throughout the week, the initiative offered a series of lectures, workshops, and awareness activities, led by partner companies and professionals, covering topics ranging from accident prevention to promoting mental and physical health in the corporate environment.

This collaboration enriched the event’s program, providing an exchange of experiences and knowledge that empowered participants to identify potential hazards and take preventive action.

Contribution to Service Quality

Since 1977, Controllab has been dedicated to fostering quality and is committed to preserving life. The adoption of these preventive practices positively contributes to the organizational culture and operational results, creating a safe and healthy corporate environment. This care directly reflects in the continuous improvement of quality and the reliability of the services offered.

Furthermore, the company demonstrates its attention to legal requirements, in compliance with Regulatory Standard No. 05, focused on the preservation of life and the promotion of worker health.

Collaboration between PAHO, IEC, and Controllab enhances reliability in the detection of the Oropouche virus

admincontrollab — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 12:15:08 +0000

An initiative by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Evandro Chagas Institute aimed to enhance professionals’ routines and strengthen virus surveillance efforts across the Americas.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Evandro Chagas Institute (IEC), a science and technology institution under the Secretariat for Health Surveillance and Environment (SVSA) of the Ministry of Health (Brazil), held the workshop “Serological and Molecular Detection of Oropouche Virus (OROV) Infection” in September and October 2024.

The initiative arose from the need to strengthen virus surveillance efforts across the Americas and was conducted at the Arbovirology and Hemorrhagic Fevers Section (SEARB), which serves as a National Reference Laboratory and a Collaborating Center for PAHO and the World Health Organization (WHO) for emerging and re-emerging arboviruses and other viral zoonoses.

Professional development and benefits for public health

According to PAHO and IEC, laboratory diagnosis of OROV infection is essential for case confirmation and the qualification of surveillance data. The expectation is that, following the workshop, professionals will apply the knowledge gained regarding OROV diagnosis in both molecular and serological routine diagnostics, in order to strengthen the surveillance system. This way, it will be possible to improve the timely detection of outbreaks, monitor cases, and guide evidence-based decision-making.

Controllab and its contribution to the workshop

Attuned to the needs of the diagnostic sector and recognized for pioneering initiatives that ensure reliability in analytical routines, Controllab, the first company to provide the Proficiency Testing for Molecular Biology of the Oropouche Virus, sent control material samples for the training of professionals.

PAHO and IEC emphasize the importance of Controllab’s collaboration, an international reference in laboratory quality control solutions:

– Currently, the availability of serological tests for detecting OROV infection is limited. Most countries in the region that have OROV diagnostics rely on the detection of viral genetic material through RT-qPCR. In this context, it is essential to ensure the quality and reliability of the results obtained in various public health laboratories across the region. The variety of samples and the complexity of the panels proposed by these tests allow for the assessment of laboratories’ ability to detect the virus under different conditions, simulating real-world diagnostic scenarios.

Como o Ensaio de Proficiência contribui para a confiabilidade diagnóstica?

Laboratory routines require continuous monitoring and periodic evaluation, as they play a critical role in the processes of detection, assessment, response, reporting, and monitoring of public health events.

Proficiency Testing (PT), also known as External Quality Control, is an effective tool for determining the laboratory’s analytical performance, assisting in the standardization of new diagnostic tests for the disease. In addition, it is a necessary requirement for laboratory accreditation processes (ISO 15189, ISO 17025, PALC-SBPC/ML, DICQ-SBAC, etc.) and regulatory bodies.

PAHO and IEC emphasized that conducting Proficiency Testing for Molecular Biology in the diagnosis of Oropouche virus (OROV), such as those offered by Controllab, is essential to ensure the quality and reliability of laboratory results:

– Ao identificar possíveis falhas e desvios nos resultados, os Ensaios de Proficiência contribuem para a melhoria contínua das práticas laboratoriais e para a padronização dos métodos de diagnóstico. Isso é crucial para garantir a comparabilidade dos resultados entre diferentes laboratórios e fortalecer a vigilância epidemiológica. Além disso, a qualidade dos dados gerados por meio de testes de proficiência robustos influencia diretamente a tomada de decisões em saúde pública, permitindo a implementação de medidas de controle mais eficazes e a alocação adequada de recursos.

According to PAHO and IEC, the implementation of Proficiency Testing is essential to ensure the quality, reliability, sensitivity, and specificity of tests; harmonization and standardization between laboratories; technical training; and continuous improvement.

In summary, it is crucial to ensure that laboratories have the technical capacity to perform reliable diagnostics and to support decision-making in public health, especially in a context of rapid virus spread and limited resources for diagnosis.

Epidemiological situation

On October 15, 2024, PAHO released the epidemiological situation of Oropouche in the Americas: between epidemiological weeks (EW) 1 and 40 of 2024, 10,275 cases of Oropouche were confirmed, including two deaths. The cases were reported in nine countries: Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, United States of America, Guyana, and Peru.

In this context, Brazil reported 13 fetal deaths, three spontaneous abortions, and four cases of congenital anomalies. In September, Cuba confirmed one case of congenital anomaly.

Clicking on this link, you can check the updated epidemiological situation of the Oropouche virus.

Strengthening epidemiological surveillance in the Americas

PAHO periodically provides updated epidemiological information and data. To guide the health systems of countries, the organization has made available documents such as:

PAHO provides continuous technical support to countries in the region to strengthen their capacity to detect and respond in a timely manner to the threats posed by endemic, emerging, and reemerging arboviruses.

In addition, the Organization also offers technical collaboration through training (in-person or remote), workshops, and other initiatives, enabling countries to characterize these pathogens using genetic sequencing, including the distribution of reagents. In the case of the Oropouche virus, 25 countries in the region have already implemented molecular diagnostics with the support of PAHO and the Collaborating Centers.

SBPC/ML and Controllab provide training to medical residents on quality control

admincontrollab — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 11:06:19 +0000

In an interview with “Talking A,” the Director of Education at SBPC/ML emphasizes the importance of the course conducted in partnership with Controllab.

The Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML) and Controllab have joined forces to provide a pioneering learning and development opportunity for future professionals in the laboratory sector. In an exclusive partnership, they conducted the Quality Control Course for Medical Residency in Clinical Pathology.

Recently, “Talking A” interviewed one of the students from the training, who emphasized how essential the initiative was for their development. Now, the educational manager at Controllab, José Poloni, spoke with Dr. Leonardo Vasconcellos, Director of Education at SBPC/ML and one of the academic coordinators of the course for the residents.

During the interview, Dr. Leonardo highlighted important aspects of the program, which had a substantial workload totaling 810 minutes, and emphasized that it was designed to strengthen safety and analytical accuracy in clinical laboratories:

– There were nine classes covering everything from statistical fundamentals to internal and external control, as well as benchmarking of laboratory indicators. We discussed analytical results, in addition to practices for Point-of-Care. Although medical residency programs address the principles of quality, hearing more theory, with the practical examples presented by Controllab’s team of experts, was a huge benefit for the residents, he emphasized.

Training Highlights

Dr. Leonardo commented on the positive impact of the course on the training of future specialists and emphasized that laboratories are composed of processes:

– The course greatly contributed to the training of professionals, reminding us that a laboratory is a process. A large part of the exams is done through automation, so ensuring that the analytical system is functioning according to best practices greatly increases the credibility of the results, he stated.

Furthermore, the specialist also highlighted the importance of Controllab’s involvement in the success of the educational initiative:

– We are very pleased with this partnership. Controllab is a reference for us, and we hope that this first course was just the beginning of a long and successful partnership, he commented.

Impact on Career and Professional Practice

According to Dr. Leonardo, the course offered participants a more comprehensive and detailed understanding of the tools that make up quality control:

– The clinical laboratory, when releasing a test result, needs to be sure that it was done correctly and accurately reflects reality. And, since everything is highly systematized, for the clinical pathologist to be certain that their analytical system is working perfectly, they must rely on internal control and proficiency testing, which allows for comparison with other peers. So, regardless of the laboratory’s size, pathologists need to have this knowledge, he explained.

The specialist pointed out that healthcare, as a whole, is always expanding, and this reality also applies to laboratory routines:

– The laboratory of the past conducted 200 or 300 tests. Nowadays, it performs thousands. So, there is always a new methodology or different laboratory tests. We need to have diagnostic accuracy. The professionals working in this field also need to evolve. It is a continuous education. The professional gains a foundation of knowledge and then refines it over that base, he emphasized.

Watch the approach now

Click here and see how this Talking About Quality helps laboratory professionals broaden their view on quality, highlighting how understanding the theoretical foundations of quality control impacts practice!

Take advantage and subscribe to Controllab’s YouTube channel to access newly published content firsthand.

Increase the reliability of your routine with the lesson on good laboratory practices and reagent water!

admincontrollab — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:50:12 +0000

Controllab offers an Online Meeting that covered the role of water in the quality control process, contaminants, purification technologies, and other key aspects of the topic.

If you weren’t able to attend the live session of the “Good Laboratory Practices and Reagent Water: Importance for Clinical Laboratories” class, you now have the opportunity to check out the insights the initiative provided.

The Online Meeting was led by Dr. José Tesser Poloni, a pharmacist-biochemist (PUCRS), master and doctor in Health Sciences (UFCSPA), and educational manager at Controllab. The specialist provided a comprehensive overview of:

Contaminants
Quality requirements for water in clinical laboratories
International standards
Specifications – CLSI

Additionally, the specialist discussed:

Interferents
Purification technologies
The role of water in the quality control process.

These and other topics discussed clarified doubts and broadened professionals’ understanding of good laboratory practices and reagent water. One of the participants highlighted that “the training was excellent and necessary for us to evaluate everything, from the water that arrives at our laboratory to the water we use for our internal controls”.

Watch right now

Check out the recording of the class here! It’s important to note that live participation allows you to clarify your doubts on the topic discussed, improve your analytical routine, and secure your participation certificate, which is essential for showcasing professional development. On the Online Meeting page, you can watch recordings of all the classes promoted by Controllab. Take advantage of the opportunity and subscribe to the company’s channels on WhatsApp and YouTube to stay updated on all content produced with complete agility!

New controls for clinical microbiology and genetics bring greater reliability to analyses

admincontrollab — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 11:00:29 +0000

The expansion of controls for microorganism research and lactose intolerance testing enhances the quality of examination routines.

Controllab has expanded its offering of External Quality Controls (Proficiency Testing) for the areas of clinical microbiology and genetics. This expansion aims to enhance the quality of analytical routines and support establishments in complying with the brazilian normative RDC 786/2023 and accreditation requirements.

What are the benefits of participating in Proficiency Testing?

By participating in Proficiency Testing (PT), laboratories demonstrate the reliability of their analytical results and identify failures, enabling corrective or preventive actions to be taken. Additionally, PT allows testing facilities to perform market comparisons and detect trends that may otherwise go unnoticed.

This directly contributes to patient safety by preventing incorrect diagnoses and inappropriate treatments, while also strengthening the laboratory’s market credibility and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

With one of the largest portfolios in the world, featuring over 3,500 tests, Controllab has launched new Proficiency Tests. Explore each of them below and their respective areas.

Clinical Microbiology

Epidemiological Surveillance Cultures (ESC) – Candida auris; CAZ-AVI resistant microorganisms; polymyxin-resistant microorganisms.
Group A Streptococcus (GAS): culture.

Genetics

Genetic Lactose Intolerance.

We highlight the following additional Proficiency Tests available to enhance the reliability of phenotypic and molecular analyses in Epidemiological Surveillance routines:

Epidemiological Surveillance Cultures – Detection of Carbapenemases; ERC; ESBL; GBS; MRSA/ORSA; and VRE.
Molecular Epidemiological Surveillance – Detection of Carbapenemases; ESBL; GBS; MRSA; and VRE.

Do you conduct these tests in your routine?

Join the programs and ensure the safety of the results provided to your audience. Contact our specialists at +55 21 98258-0074 and explore all the available tests!

How does Controllab elevate the standard of quality in laboratory analyses?

admincontrollab — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 13:10:19 +0000

In the field of analyses, where excellence is essential, the company stands out as a benchmark for innovation, efficiency, and solutions.

With over 47 years of experience and presence on four continents, Controllab is an international benchmark for laboratory quality control solutions.

The company offers a comprehensive portfolio with integrated solutions and a multidisciplinary team supporting over 15,000 users in various analysis fields, including clinical, genetic, blood banks, water, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, veterinary, food, effluents, and more.

With unique expertise in quality control, Controllab has strategic partnerships with renowned national and international scientific organizations. It is also recognized for complying with major standards relevant to its operations, including ISO 9001, 17025, 17034, and 17043.

Get to know the Controllab differentials that meet your needs

Made up of over 400 direct employees and around 100 technical-scientific advisors, this multidisciplinary team is dedicated to service innovation, quality, and continuous improvement. They also provide support and address inquiries.

Controllab solutions and excellence in your organization

Controllab offers a range of solutions for quality control and performance evaluation. Get to know these solutions and how they contribute to the organization’s recognition among its audience:

External Quality Control (Proficiency Testing) – Diverse portfolio with routine samples and results reporting for all equipment.
Internal Quality Control – Third-party assessments, interlaboratory sample comparisons, and free access to CI ONLINE for tracking results.
Strains of Reference – Internationally recognized, readily available strains.
Metricare – Benchmarking for strategic and operational decision-making.
Certified Reference Materials – Extensive portfolio with unique market properties.
Lot by Lot Certification Program – Builds confidence in POCTs and routine analytics.
Calibration of Instruments – Reliable service with minimal turnaround time, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness.

Professional qualification with free improvement activities

Controllab also promotes educational initiatives that support the continuous development of professionals in the field.

To deliver these resources consistently, the company relies on multiple specialists and a team of renowned advisors guided by a structured educational department that is responsive to the audience’s needs.

Through scientific summaries, educational materials, interviews, online and in-person classes, client forums, and other activities, the company is dedicated to promoting quality enhancement.

The ideal partner for your journey toward excellence

In the pursuit of excellence, reputation, and credibility, Controllab, with its solid principles and concrete values, stands as the ideal partner to elevate your establishment to a new level of recognition and quality!

Click to explore how Controllab’s differentials and its Quality Control solutions enhance your laboratory’s reputation in the market and ensure public satisfaction!

Interview Highlights SBPC/ML and Controllab Course for Professional Development

admincontrollab — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 12:38:32 +0000

The student emphasized the relevance of the initiative in the new edition of Talking A.

Recently, the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML) and Controllab, in an exclusive partnership, conducted the Quality Control Course for Clinical Pathology Medical Residency.

The initiative aimed to train medical residents by providing the necessary knowledge to face the challenges of a constantly evolving field, offering a unique opportunity for professional development.

The Academic Coordination team included Leonardo Vasconcellos (Director of Education at SBPC/ML), José Poloni (Educational Manager at Controllab), and Rafael Monsores Lopes (General Services Manager at Controllab). The Technical Coordination was led by Adriana Vieira (Educational Supervisor at Controllab).

Offered free of charge and in an online format, the course awarded certificates to students who met the attendance and assessment requirements.

Enhancing Laboratory Practices

In a new edition of “Talking A,” José Poloni interviewed Dr. Érico Veríssimo. The physician, a graduate of the Institute of Health Sciences at FUNORTE and a Clinical Pathology resident at USP’s HC, was one of the participants in the training program.

During the interview, the medical resident emphasized the importance of specialization in quality control to prepare students for the challenges in the field and highlighted the topic that caught his attention the most:

– “I am particularly interested in quality specifications. In one of the classes, a question was posed: Could a 1% error rate in the laboratory be considered significant? If we apply that 1% to the airline Air France, it would mean at least three flights with potential accidents. Therefore, we need to pay close attention to the entire quality control process, Proficiency Testing, Internal Quality Control, to ensure that we deliver reliable results, without a negative impact on medical decisions,” he stated.

The student also emphasized that the exchange of experiences among professionals was one of the most enriching aspects, allowing residents to learn from real-life situations.

Theory Combined with Practice

Dr. Érico highlighted the importance of the course’s didactics, organization, and practical case studies, which were essential for consolidating his theoretical knowledge.

He also found the discussion on Resolution 786/2023 particularly valuable. This regulation outlines the technical and sanitary requirements for the operation of Clinical Laboratories, Pathology Laboratories, and other services conducting Clinical Analysis Exams (EAC):

– “The practical cases helped to solidify the knowledge. Additionally, the course covered key aspects of RDC 786/2023. For instance, it emphasized the significance of quality management, participation in Proficiency Testing programs, and benchmarking laboratory indicators. This approach not only enhances the internal performance of the laboratory but also leverages improvement opportunities through market comparison,” he stated.

Watch Now

Click here to view the full discussion on Conversa de Qualidade with Dr. Érico Veríssimo and understand how this initiative helps ensure the reliability of results, improving clinical decision-making and patient safety.

Take the opportunity to subscribe to Controllab’s YouTube channel to access educational content produced by the company first-hand.

Controllab shares its knowledge at the 19th Congrelab

admincontrollab — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 11:21:16 +0000

The event will be held in Porto Alegre on November 22nd and 23rd.

The 19º Congresso Gaúcho de Análises Clínicas (Congrelab) is organized by the Laboratórios Associados (LAS) and aims to foster the exchange of knowledge and updates in clinical analysis, with a focus on innovations, new technologies, and key trends in laboratory diagnostics.

The event will be held on November 22 and 23 at the PUC Events Center in Porto Alegre. The scientific program will be extensive, including lectures, panel discussions, and workshops, providing an excellent opportunity for networking and in-depth exploration of key topics such as Hematology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Cytology, and Strategic and Quality Management.

Controllab Participation

Controllab, reaffirming its commitment to fostering quality and promoting knowledge, will be represented by Fernando Berlitz, manager of indicators and accreditations, and José Poloni, the company’s educational manager. Their presentations will take place on November 23 during the following sessions:

8h30 – De Ideias a Impacto: Ferramentas e Cases de Inovação para Laboratórios, com Fernando Berlitz e a Dra. Camila Peter;
11h – Explorando o Potencial dos Dados do Controle Externo da Qualidade para Avaliar o Desempenho Histórico dos Laboratórios no Brasil, com José Poloni.

Fernando Berlitz will present how innovation is essential for the sustainability of laboratories and applicable to organizations of all sizes. He will demonstrate the use of metrics and indicators to guide management with a focus on results.

José Poloni, in turn, will emphasize the importance of external quality control data in identifying patterns, trends, and areas for improvement in laboratory processes through retrospective analysis of laboratory performance in proficiency testing.

Access the full program on the event website and secure your participation.

Adoption of indicators for laboratory management efficiency is highlighted in an interview with Shift

admincontrollab — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:00:59 +0000

The company’s Director of Products and Technology highlighted the importance of data analysis and the effectiveness of compliance policies in a new approach of “Talking A.”

Performance-based management is essential for success in organizational administration.

This practice provides clear and measurable metrics that help monitor, evaluate, and improve operations. Additionally, it enables managers to quickly identify areas for improvement, adjust strategies, and make informed decisions. When adopted and complemented with comparative practices, this approach ensures compliance with RDC 786/2023.

Continuing the series of exclusive interviews with technology companies approved by SBPC/ML and Controllab for the Metricare laboratory module, educational manager José Poloni spoke with the Director of Products and Technology at Shift, Adriano Basques. In addition to explaining the company’s operations, the expert emphasized the value of the partnership with Metricare for the healthcare market.

With over 30 years of experience, Shift is a Brazilian information technology company focused on diagnostic and preventive medicine, built on the pillars of innovation, agility, presence, and leadership. The combination of its technological expertise with the commitment to fostering positive and lasting relationships is reflected in accurate diagnostics and a more strategic vision for diagnostic centers, which explains its consolidation as one of the industry leaders in Brazil and Latin America.

Integration with Metricare and management efficiency

Shift currently has 40 indicators integrated with Metricare, with others in development for future integration.

During the interview, Adriano emphasizes that these indicators are relevant not only for improving performance but also for compliance, which refers to the establishments’ adherence to laws, regulations, norms, and standards applicable to their sector:

– 85% of Shift’s clients have at least one accreditation or quality certification. Because of this, our platform offers significant differentiators for this client profile. Highlighting some key pillars that our technology supports, we have the pillar of quality. We maintain high compliance with Brazilian legislation and the main national and international standards. Additionally, our platform ensures full traceability of processes, in compliance with RDC 786/2023, explains.

According to Adriano, Shift’s mission is to transform the health of businesses and individuals, with a focus on promoting the improvement of diagnostic medicine and its services. For this reason, the indicators provided by the company’s platform and integrated with Metricare cover various phases of the laboratory cycle, from recollection and the reasons behind it, to the number of reports that were not accessed or generated incorrectly, for example:

– When I have an automated process, with standardized data retrieval and a high level of reliability, I bring efficiency to the work and increase the level of professional engagement. This allows the professional to take a more strategic role, enhancing and improving the level of management, he emphasizes.

Watch it now!

Gain valuable insights to transform your business by watching this special session by clicking on this link to Talking About Quality. Discover how Metricare, in partnership with integration companies, can drive the results of your healthcare establishment!

Controllab Proficiency Testing participants deepen knowledge in report analysis

admincontrollab — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 12:32:30 +0000

Online initiative focused on report interpretation to enhance routine practices.

Recently, participants in Controllab’s External Quality Assessment (Proficiency Testing) had the opportunity to expand their knowledge by exploring Proficiency Testing (PT) reports in a more strategic way during a new edition of the Online Forum.

The Online Forum is an exclusive event for Controllab service participants, offering not only a space for technical and strategic deepening on the topic but also discussions and experience sharing among participants and company specialists.

Importance of Proficiency Testing

Proficiency Testing (PT) is an essential tool to ensure accuracy and efficiency in analytical processes. It is also a requirement of the Brazilian regulatory norm RDC 786/2023, which establishes technical-sanitary standards for clinical laboratories, pathology labs, and other services related to clinical analysis testing (CAT).

Participating in Proficiency Testting (PT) ensures greater patient safety by preventing diagnostic and treatment errors. Additionally, it strengthens the laboratory’s reputation in the market and ensures compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards.

Applicability of the initiative to laboratory routine

With the theme “Deepening report analysis to enhance routine”, the forum, led by Controllab specialists, provided a practical approach to using report data interpretation to improve laboratory processes. Moreover, the event offered valuable insights on evaluation criteria, error limits, and the importance of critical result analysis.

According to participant feedback, the event was instrumental in clarifying questions and demonstrating the application of Proficiency Testing, empowering participants to use this tool more effectively.

These discussions generated valuable insights to enhance laboratory process efficiency and ensure analysis reliability.

Want to be recognized for the excellence of your reports?

Contact one of our specialists by clicking here and discover our exclusive advantages!

Controllab offers a class on Advanced Applications in Molecular Diagnosis (NGS)

admincontrollab — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 12:01:38 +0000

The online meeting provided participants with detailed knowledge about the technologies and platforms of NGS available in the market and the importance of sequencing.

The recording of the Online Meeting “Advanced Applications in Molecular Diagnosis (NGS)” is now available. This is an opportunity for you, who did not attend the initiative live, to expand your knowledge and improve your analytical routine!

The class was taught by Dr. Gustavo Barra, a master in molecular pharmacology and coordinator of the genomics sector at Sabin Medicina Diagnóstica, who addressed essential topics on the subject, such as:

Introduction to Next Generation Sequencing (NGS);
Technologies and platforms of NGS available in the market;
Clinical applications of NGS in molecular diagnosis;
When and why to validate an NGS method;
Analytical performance parameters in NGS validation;
Internal and external quality control in NGS.

These and other topics discussed in the initiative clarified doubts and expanded professionals’ understanding of Molecular Diagnosis (NGS), which allows for rapid and detailed genetic analyses, essential for identifying emerging infectious agents and genetic diseases.

One participant noted that “the information was shared clearly, encompassing a global content and benefiting diverse audiences.”

Watch now

Check out the recording of the class here!

It is important to note that participating live allows you to clarify your doubts about the topic discussed, as well as guaranteeing your participation certificate, which is essential to demonstrate professional development.

On the Online Meeting page, you can watch the recordings of all the classes promoted by Controllab. Take advantage of the opportunity and subscribe to the company’s channels on WhatsApp and YouTube to stay updated on all the content produced with total agility!

Saiba os critérios para selecionar e implementar POCTs

admincontrollab — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 11:42:32 +0000

Participe do Encontro Online e amplie seu conhecimento sobre a escolha dos dispositivos, rastreabilidade, exigências regulatórias e outros aspectos fundamentais relacionados ao tema.

No dia 07/11 (quinta-feira), às 15h (horário de Brasília), a Controllab promoverá o Encontro Online “Critérios para Seleção dos Testes POCT“.

A iniciativa é gratuita e será conduzida pelo Dr. Márcio dos Santos Damascena, biomédico e coordenador das unidades avançadas do Hospital Albert Einstein com 20 anos de experiência em análises clínicas.

Aproveite a chance para atualizar o seu conhecimento, ampliar suas habilidades profissionais e aprimorar a sua rotina analítica!

Quais assuntos serão abordados no encontro?

Dr. Márcio discutirá temas essenciais para aprofundar seu entendimento sobre a temática, proporcionando uma visão estratégica sobre:

coleta e tipos de amostras elegíveis para os tipos de serviços;
escolha dos dispositivos;
complexidade conforme a RDC 786/2023 e a norma PALC;
rastreabilidade;
benefícios da conectividade;
atribuições do coordenador Point-Of-Care.

Por que você deve participar?

É uma excelente oportunidade para você se atualizar sobre as exigências da RDC 786/2023 e da norma PALC em relação aos POCTs. Além disso, vai aprimorar suas habilidades para selecionar os testes mais adequados e a implementá-los de maneira eficiente na sua rotina.

Participe ao vivo e receba seu certificado!

Garanta agora mesmo a sua participação neste link, pois as vagas são limitadas!

A iniciativa terá duração de 40 minutos e mais 20 minutos para esclarecimento de dúvidas. Ao acompanhar a iniciativa ao vivo, você garante a emissão do seu certificado de participação, que evidenciará a sua atualização profissional.

Esperamos você!

Controllab provides a mini atlas of hematology

admincontrollab — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 11:03:29 +0000

The material is a valuable reference source for laboratory health professionals.

The mini atlas of hematology is now available for download. This material is an initiative by Controllab and reinforces the company’s commitment to educating for quality promotion.

With it, you can consult high-resolution images of the structures of the red series and visualize the elements through advanced microscopy and staining techniques.

Where can I find the mini atlas?

In the education menu on the Controllab website, you can access the material and explore a wide gallery of images that includes normal erythrocytes, their changes in size, color, and shape, erythrocytic inclusions, among others. In this menu, you can also access previous editions of the mini atlases, which have been a success in analysis routines: the mini atlas of parasitology and urinalysis.

The mini atlas of hematology was recently one of the highlights at the Controllab booth at the 56th CBPC/ML. Participants who visited the company’s exhibition had the opportunity to take part in an interactive quiz and receive a printed version, produced exclusively for distribution at the event.

Click here and download your mini atlas now!

Did you know that there are different culture collections available for your routine?

admincontrollab — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 13:57:50 +0000

Explore the options and understand the equivalence of the main collections.

Culture collections are valuable resources aimed at preserving, identifying, cataloging, and distributing the strains deposited within them for use in quality control, supporting scientific research, as well as in the development and production of bioproducts and other applications in the fields of health, agriculture, industry, and the environment.

In the routine of analysis laboratories, for example, reference strains are essential for quality control of the materials used in clinical and veterinary diagnostic tests, as well as in microbiological analysis of food, water, pharmaceutical products, and the environment. They are also of great importance for conducting studies on the validation of analytical methods and determining measurement uncertainty.

In its continuous pursuit of providing the best solutions in laboratory quality control, Controllab has partnered with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This initiative has enabled immediate access to reference strains for Brazil and other Latin American countries.

Get to know NCTC®️

Among the main collections, NCTC®️ (National Collection of Type Cultures) stands out as the oldest bacterial collection in the world, founded in 1920. These strains are available for immediate delivery.

They provide greater confidence and credibility to routines, facilitating compliance with standards, regulations, audits, accreditations, and inspections. As a natural evolution of Controllab’s solutions, the strains have earned the ABNT NBR ISO 17034 certification, and most of them are now recognized as Certified Reference Materials (CRM).

In addition to NCTC®️, Controllab is also licensed for NCPV®️ (National Collection of Pathogenic Viruses) and NCPF®️ (National Collection of Pathogenic Fungi).

Equivalence of the main culture collections

NCTC®️, like ATCC®️, is a global reference for culture collections. Both are registered with the WDCM (World Data Center for Microorganisms), an international database that groups strains into a unique identifier system. This facilitates the comparison and sharing of information about reference strains.

In the WDCM, the same strain can have different designations depending on the collection. For example, the strain Escherichia coli NCTC®️ 12241 is also designated as ATCC®️ 25922; CIP®️ 76.24, DSM®️ 1103, CCUG®️ 17620, CECT®️ 434, depending on the culture collection.

Therefore, when using an NCTC®️ strain or an ATCC®️ strain, you are using reference strains with the same phenotypic characteristics and genotyping. Technical protocols and accrediting bodies recognize all available culture collections, ensuring equivalence and compliance among them.

Do you want to add more credibility and trust to your routine while optimizing resources and costs?

Access this channel and learn more about reference strains with Controllab’s experts!

Ensure market confidence with POCT certification

admincontrollab — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 11:00:11 +0000

Discover how this initiative is the differentiator your clients need.

The certificate from the Lot-by-Lot Program, issued by Controllab, ensures that the POCT lots are consistent with previous ones from the same manufacturer, promoting efficiency and cost savings for laboratories and other clinical analysis establishments.

Manufacturers, bring this benefit to your customers

Manufacturers and registry holders participating in the program meet their audience’s needs, helping reduce costs and efforts in monitoring the replacement of new reagent batches for clients. This way, they ensure confidence in the devices they market.

Laboratories and analysis facilities, take advantage of these routine benefits

With certified batches, laboratories benefit from a prior evaluation of the batch incorporated into their routine, demonstrating consistency with the previous batch and reliability in their analyses.

Talk to your manufacturer and bring these benefits to your routine!

Who has already certified their products?

Manufacturers such as Abbott, Biosys, Eco Diagnóstica, and MedLevensohn are already participating in Controllab’s Lot-by-Lot Program, meeting their customers’ needs and reinforcing trust in their products. You can check the updated list of certified batches via this link.

Ensure more efficiency and confidence in your analytical processes with certified batches!

For more information about the Lot-by-Lot Certification Program, visit this exclusive channel and speak directly with the specialist for this solution.

Controllab is present at ALAPAC 2024

admincontrollab — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 12:54:10 +0000

Participation in the event validates the company’s commitment to strengthening the quality of laboratory services in Latin America.

Controllab will be at the XXVII Congress of the Latin American Association of Clinical Pathology / Laboratory Medicine – ALAPAC, from October 9 to 12, in Lima, Peru. In this edition, the event will also bring together the III Peruvian International Congress of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and the X Peruvian Congress of Clinical Pathology.

According to the congress organizers, the event aims to promote the exchange of scientific knowledge, foster cutting-edge research, and strengthen collaboration among professionals in clinical pathology and laboratory medicine in Latin America in a dynamic learning environment.

Thus, participants will have the opportunity to stay updated on the latest trends and technological advancements in the field.

Stand Controllab

During the exhibition, congress attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the complete solutions that the company offers for analytical quality control and its extensive portfolio, which includes over 3,500 assays.

The company provides External and Internal Quality Control, Reference Strains, Laboratory Indicators, Quality Specifications, Certified Reference Materials, and Panels for Validation and Linearity Verification.

By sharing knowledge and collaborating with professionals working in other countries, Controllab, recognized for its achievements, aims to enhance quality practices in the sector and contribute to the excellence of healthcare services.

Controllab looks forward to welcoming all participants of the congress to its stand!

Controllab expands its veterinary portfolio with the inclusion of Leishmania

admincontrollab — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 12:52:02 +0000

Following its pioneering and leadership trajectory, the company is the first to offer Proficiency Testing for the veterinary segment.

Leishmaniasis is a tropical parasitic disease caused by different species of protozoa from the genus Leishmania. Accurate diagnosis is essential for proper treatment and to prevent the disease from being mistaken for other clinical conditions.

Pioneering program

Controllab, a reference in quality control for testing in Latin America, in an unprecedented initiative, offers the Molecular Biology program for Leishmania.

The program includes the Proficiency Testing (PT), also known as External Quality Assessment (EQA), which follows the criteria of ABNT NBR ISO/IEC 17043. This PT stands out by obtaining the complete genetic material of the parasite. This allows the reporting of any molecular method, providing the most comprehensive monitoring of the analytical routine.

In addition to this program, Controllab offers a wide variety of external and internal controls to assist veterinary analytical routines, ensuring result accuracy and contributing to the prevention of zoonotic risks.

What are the benefits of participating in the PT?

By participating in the PT, the laboratory conducts a periodic inter-laboratory comparison of results to evaluate the accuracy of the results and the effectiveness of monitoring the analytical processes.

The laboratory that opts to participate in a proficiency program finds in the solution the continuous improvement of its process, not just compliance with a legal requirement (CFMV Resolution No. 1374).

Proficiency Testing is responsible for providing important information for the laboratories’ routine, such as identifying failures and enabling corrective or preventive actions.

Do you want recognition for excellence in your reports?

Contact a Controllab specialist now, enhance your establishment’s reputation, and increase your audience’s satisfaction.

Controllab participates in the International Congress of Biochemistry and Bacteriology

admincontrollab — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 11:55:54 +0000

The company presents its innovative programs and contributes to the enhancement of knowledge through educational initiatives.

Controllab is present at the XXVI Latin American Congress of Clinical Biochemistry and the XXII International Congress of the National College of Bacteriology, in Colombia, from October 3rd to 6th. This year’s theme is: “Science and the clinical laboratory united for one health.”

The event offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the world of biochemistry and bacteriology. In addition to presenting the latest advances in research and technology, it also promotes connection among colleagues from across Latin America.

Controllab Exhibition

At the stand, congress attendees will have access to the solutions that Controllab offers to ensure reliability in analytical processes, and they will be able to learn more about one of the largest portfolios in the world, with over 3500 assays.

With over 47 years of experience, the company stands out for its recognitions and for offering comprehensive solutions to meet the needs of laboratories. Controllab provides External and Internal Quality Control, Reference Strains, Laboratory Indicators, Quality Specifications, Certified Reference Materials, and Panels for Validation and Linearity Verification.

Educational initiatives

During the congress, specialists from Controllab and Dr. Clara Morales Camargo (Colombia) will present the quality symposium on October 5th. The initiative will address how quality control and accreditation play a fundamental role in ensuring the quality of analytical results.

In addition to the symposium, the company will also participate in two more educational activities that are part of the scientific program of the event. The first will discuss good laboratory practices and reagent water for the biochemistry sector, and the second will focus on quality control with an emphasis on urinary sediment.

Visit the Controllab stand

If you are attending the event and looking to optimize your analytical processes and ensure your audience’s satisfaction, visit the Controllab stand!

Have you already checked out the key insights from ADLM 2024 on laboratory indicators?

admincontrollab — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 10:53:22 +0000

In an interview with Talking A, Fernando Berlitz shared details about the scientific session he led at the ADLM 2024 conference, held in July in Chicago.

Organized by the Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (ADLM), the conference attracted over 18,000 participants from around the world and featured 250 educational sessions, covering a wide range of topics relevant to health and laboratory medicine.

In the most recent Talking A, Fernando Berlitz, accreditation and indicators manager at Controllab, highlighted his participation in the scientific session “International Quality Indicators: Experiences, Opportunities, and Challenges.” He presented Controllab’s pioneering work in comparative analysis of laboratory indicators, emphasizing the nearly two-decade evolution of Metricare (formerly PBIL). Today, Metricare stands out as the largest global laboratory benchmarking platform, both in the number of participants and the diversity of indicators.

Scientific Session

The discussion was moderated by Dr. Vincent De Guire, a Canadian biochemist and one of the leaders of the Laboratory Errors and Patient Safety (WG-LEPS) from the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC).

During the interview, Berlitz emphasized that the session’s proposal was based on the presentation of consolidated benchmarking initiatives with concrete results validated by the IFCC. According to him, the approval of the topic by ADLM’s scientific committee reflects the relevance and applicability of these topics for laboratories in the current context.

Berlitz commented: “We are in an era of evidence-based medicine and big data, where a vast amount of data is circulating in health operations. It is increasingly essential for us to empower ourselves to know how to use this data effectively, generating improvements for both healthcare organizations and patients. We are being held to higher standards to be more efficient and create value with fewer resources. Therefore, data is crucial for identifying where to prioritize investments and ensuring they bring real value to organizations.”

The scientific session addressed the Brazilian experience in comparative management of indicators, providing a rich exchange of knowledge and practices among participants. Berlitz mentioned RDC 786/2023 as an essential legal milestone for the practice of indicator management in Brazil and emphasized the importance of data integration through laboratory information systems (LIS), which ensure data security and increase laboratory efficiency by reducing the effort required for data collection, processing, and submission.

Other topics discussed included the Brazil-Canada pilot for the IFCC, the initial results of the microbiology indicators project, and indicators related to the communication of laboratory errors, highlighting the commitment to continuous improvement of laboratory service quality and patient safety.

The Future of indicators

Berlitz highlighted the importance of knowledge exchange at international events for Brazilian laboratories. In addition to Controllab’s scientific session, other initiatives at the conference emphasized the growing role of indicator management.

The event addressed environmental sustainability in laboratories, aligned with the LEAN approach to minimize waste. This theme is directly related to the development of ESG indicators (Environmental, Social, and Governance) on the Metricare platform, which aims not only to reduce waste but also to integrate socio-environmental and governance aspects into the financial results of laboratories.

Scientific presentations (posters) also explored studies on indices related to resistance in surveillance cultures, errors in the pre-analytical phase, and communication of critical results to patients.

Berlitz announced that many of the approaches discussed at ADLM are already being incorporated into the Metricare platform, which continues to evolve to provide advanced tools for optimizing laboratory process management and benchmarking.

Watch it now!

You can check out the full approach on Talking about Event.

Make sure to subscribe to Controllab’s YouTube channel to access educational content produced by the company firsthand.

Are the POCT certificates already part of your analytical routine?

admincontrollab — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 12:38:11 +0000

Discover how Lot-by-Lot Certification is transforming the diagnostic field and boosting the reliability of analyses.

The Lot-by-Lot Certification Program is the evidence your laboratory needs to enhance safety in the analytical routine of POCTs.

With certified lots, your establishment already has a prior evaluation of the lot integrated into the routine, highlighting the consistency compared to the previous lot and the reliability of the analyses.

What are the benefits of using lots certified by the Program?

This certification brings efficiency and cost savings to your establishment, promoting:

Quality and reliability: prevents potential issues or deviations that could affect the performance of the devices;
Simplification of routine: with certification, the introduction of a new lot into analytical processes becomes simpler and faster;
Reduction of costs and resources: saves reagents, time, and effort required for performance testing and analyses between lots, optimizing the frequency of Internal Quality Control.

Which manufacturers have already certified their quality?

Abbott, Biosys, Eco Diagnóstica, and MedLevensohn have already secured certification for a selection of their products:

To view the updated list of certified lots, please visit this link.

These manufacturers meet the needs of your audience, helping to reduce costs and efforts in monitoring the transition to new reagent lots in the analytical routine. Talk to your manufacturer and bring this benefit to your routine!

For more information about the Lot-by-Lot Certification Program, visit this exclusive channel and speak directly with the specialist for this solution.

Controllab participates in the 59th MEDTROP

admincontrollab — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 11:05:12 +0000

The company will showcase scientific abstracts on dengue and tuberculosis, as well as quality control solutions focused on tropical diseases.

Controllab will participate in the 59th Brazilian Congress of Tropical Medicine (MEDTROP), from September 22 to 25, 2024, at the Rebouças Convention Center in São Paulo.

Organized by the Brazilian Society of Tropical Medicine, MEDTROP is one of the largest conferences on tropical diseases, bringing together specialists to discuss epidemiology, advances in diagnosis, treatments, and strategies to combat these diseases.

The event is expected to gather over 3,000 participants and offers a program that includes exhibitions, lectures, roundtable discussions, workshops, and poster presentations.

Focus on education and quality

At the 59th MEDTROP, Controllab reinforces its support for tropical medicine by highlighting the importance of analytical excellence in the field. The company will feature two scientific abstracts in the poster hall, emphasizing the significant impact of the Brazilian external quality assessment program on critical diagnostics for tropical diseases such as dengue and tuberculosis.

The displayed abstracts are:

“Evaluation of RT-qPCR for Dengue Virus Detection: Results from a Brazilian External Quality Assessment Program”.
“Laboratory Performance in Molecular Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis through Analysis of Results from External Quality Assessment Programs: WHO Recommended Tests Outperform Others”.

Programs for tropical medicine

At booths 20 and 21, Controllab will present its specialized programs for tropical diseases. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio that ensures excellence in all routines performed for pathogen detection, whether for culture, molecular biology, or immunoassays.

Controllab provides:

External Quality Control (Proficiency Testing) and Internal Control for POCT and other methodologies, with samples simulating isolated infections and co-infections.
For molecular biology, the company supplies lyophilized samples prepared from viral isolation with the complete genome or clinical samples, allowing for the assessment of the accuracy of microorganism identification methods.
Reference Strains: These strains, sourced from the most renowned culture collections in Europe, ensure result credibility and accuracy while promoting resource savings in maintenance.

Will you be participating in the 59th MEDTROP?

Visit our booth! Our team will be ready to assist you in achieving excellence in quality.

Professionals expand their knowledge on how comparative management of indicators enhances the customer experience

admincontrollab — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 11:41:26 +0000

The Online Forum addressed customer satisfaction indicators for laboratory competitiveness.

In August, managers and professionals from laboratories participating in Metricare gathered for another Online Forum aimed at enhancing knowledge on comparative management (benchmarking) of laboratory indicators, in compliance with the Brazilian Resolution, RDC 786/2023.

The event, led by Controllab’s team of specialists, highlighted the importance of indicators related to Customer/Patient Satisfaction, emphasizing the essential care needed for patient health. Fernando Berlitz, Controllab’s Accreditation and Indicators Manager, emphasized how customer experience directly impacts the attractiveness and competitiveness of laboratories, stressing the need to “proactively listen to the customer and understand their feedback.”

Currently, the Metricare platform hosts more than 180 indicators, including nine focused on customer satisfaction, such as the Satisfaction Survey and the NPS (Net Promoter Score) methodology. During the meeting, Berlitz highlighted the importance of exploring different ways to listen to customers and assess the optimal moments for conducting satisfaction surveys.

Active participation and practical insights

As in previous events, the active participation of users contributed to collective learning, allowing participants to gain practical insights to improve the performance of their processes. Participants were able to clarify doubts about the application of satisfaction surveys, exploring how to transform customer perceptions into relevant business data.

The discussions presented at the Metricare Online Forum highlighted how comparative management of indicators is crucial for achieving a strategic vision and making assertive decisions, ensuring the efficiency and competitiveness of laboratories.

Through events like this, Metricare aims not only to expand the qualified use of its platform but also to empower managers and professionals in the strategic management of their healthcare organizations, enabling them to identify improvement opportunities, reduce costs, and adopt more efficient operational and strategic practices.

Join Controllab’s activities at the 56th CBPC/ML

admincontrollab — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 13:11:01 +0000

Explore topics that drive analytical routines, enhance customer satisfaction, and broaden your knowledge.

From September 10 to 13, the city of Salvador, in Bahia, will host the 56th Brazilian Congress of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine – CBPC/ML. This year, the event will focus on the role of these sectors in the sustainability of healthcare systems.

Controllab, a leader in quality control solutions in Latin America, will be present at the congress with its specialists, who will contribute to various activities in the scientific program and initiatives promoted by the company.

Below, check out the schedule Controllab has prepared for you, and mark the dates and times of the activities that will enhance your professional insights and knowledge in your calendar!

BrCAST practical course in bacteriology

On September 9th, Monday, starting at 2 p.m., Controllab will participate in the pre-congress activities in the ‘BrCAST Practical Course in Bacteriology.’

The external course will feature various professionals, including Controllab’s microbiology manager, Shirley Lima. The specialist will discuss the landscape of quality control in microbiology laboratories.

This will be an enriching opportunity for professionals to learn about the latest updates from BrCAST and other related topics. Register now to ensure your participation in these essential debates for the field. Spots are limited!

Controllab Workshop

Get ready to learn how the laboratory diagnostics market is adjusting one year after the release of RDC 786/2023 with the ‘Controllab Workshop’.

The activity will take place on September 11th, Wednesday, starting at 1 p.m., in Room 02 at the Salvador Convention Center. The company’s specialists will discuss:

what has changed in the monitoring of the analytical process for quality controls;
the importance of comparison in performance indicators;
quality certification for POCT.

Receive essential insights to enhance your services and maintain compliance with the resolution. Mark your calendar and join us!

Indicators Forum

On September 12th, Thursday, starting at 3 p.m., the company will present the ‘Indicators Forum: Where We Are and Where We Are Going (Legal Aspects; IFCC Harmonization; Metricare Status and Perspectives)’ in Room 07.

Controllab’s specialists and guests will discuss how participation in comparative indicators programs is shaping the future of laboratory services, driving efficiency and sustainability in laboratories.

In this space, managers and specialists will have the opportunity to explore:

the impact of indicator comparison on planning and strategic decisions;
resource optimization provided by integrative companies;
safety in participating in comparative programs;
compliance with accreditations and regulations, such as RDC 786/2023;
the initial results of the laboratory microbiology indicators pilot project;
the comprehensive benefits for all types of laboratories, including improved services, cost reduction, increased customer satisfaction, and greater competitiveness.

Join the Indicators Forum and take the opportunity to update yourself on best practices in management. Connect with other industry professionals and actively collaborate in building a more efficient and sustainable healthcare system.

Scientific abstracts

During the congress, you will also have the opportunity to visit the poster section and review the scientific abstracts developed by Controllab. The presentations cover a variety of topics that will broaden your understanding of the importance of quality tools in the analytical routine of tests.

The abstracts include studies on the Brazilian External Quality Assessment Program for various analyses, such as total cholesterol, creatinine, TSH, and free T4, as well as laboratory evaluation in detecting dengue virus and the impact of accreditation on quality indicators. They also present the evolution of Sigma metrics in an international benchmarking program for indicators.

Controllab Space - Booth 88

Located at Booth 88 of the event, the Controllab exhibition will offer unique experiences for you, the congress attendee. With interactive activities that will cover quality control data and various educational initiatives, our team will be ready to assist laboratories in achieving excellence in quality and performance.

If you’re looking to optimize your analytical processes and ensure your audience’s satisfaction, be sure to visit us! At the Controllab booth, you will have access to comprehensive quality control solutions, including insightful discussions on the benefits that Lot-to-Lot Certification brings to laboratories and the analytical market.

Is your analytical routine prepared to detect the Mpox virus?

admincontrollab — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 10:57:41 +0000

In the face of a new outbreak, it is essential that laboratories are able to identify the different circulating strains.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared that Mpox is once again a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to the emergence of a new variant and its rapid spread in Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The disease, caused by the Mpox virus of the Orthopoxvirus genus and Poxviridae family, is considered a viral zoonosis. Transmission between humans primarily occurs through personal contact with respiratory secretions, skin lesions of infected individuals, or recently contaminated objects.

In this context, it is crucial that laboratories are able to detect the different circulating strains. The release of accurate reports contributes to efficient diagnoses and the immediate isolation of patients. Rapid identification of suspected cases is essential to contain the spread of the disease and prevent worsening of cases.

Quality Control for Mpox

Controllab, a leader in quality control for testing in Latin America, offers the Mpox – Molecular Biology program.

The program includes the Proficiency Testing (PT), also known as External Quality Control (EQC). In this PT, lyophilized items prepared from a viral isolate containing the complete genome are sent out. This allows for the evaluation of the accuracy of the methods used in identifying the microorganism.

The Mpox – Molecular Biology program also provides Internal Quality Control (IQC), which ensures continuous monitoring of the analytical routine.

The Internal Controls offered by Controllab are considered third-party (produced by manufacturers other than the analytical system itself). These are independent controls, including inter-laboratory results across different systems.

Controllab’s External Controls are conducted in accordance with ISO/IEC 17043. Both these and the Internal Controls provided by the company are designed to meet national regulatory requirements, such as RDC 786/2023, as well as international standards.

Join the next round of PT for Mpox

Since 2022, Controllab has been offering Proficiency Testing in Molecular Biology for Mpox. The next round will be on October 14, and your laboratory can still participate. Speak with a specialist now to find out how. Ensure the reliability of your reports and the satisfaction of your clients!

Oropouche Fever: specialist highlights the current landscape of the disease in “Talking A” edition

admincontrollab — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 12:10:20 +0000

In an exclusive interview, Dr. Felipe Gomes Naveca emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and quality control to ensure the reliability of reports.

Oropouche fever, caused by the arbovirus Orthobunyavirus oropoucheense (OROV), is an increasing concern for public health. It not only has the potential to trigger outbreaks but also presents symptoms that can easily be confused with those of other arboviral diseases. As of the publication of this content, according to the Brazilian Ministry of Health, 7,653 cases of the disease have been reported.

In an interview for ‘Talking A,’ Dr. Felipe Gomes Naveca, head of the arbovirus and hemorrhagic viruses laboratory at Fiocruz, stated that this virus has been known since 1950 but has always been neglected. According to the specialist, the current situation reveals Oropouche’s potential to become a new threat, not only in Brazil but also across the Americas, and it deserves attention.

Potential diagnostic differences

Dr. Felipe highlighted that Oropouche Fever is quite similar to Dengue, with symptoms such as fever, headache, and body pain. However, professionals working with patients suffering from the disease have identified aspects present in most cases that can aid in faster and more accurate diagnoses:

– There are reports from experienced colleagues treating these patients at the Instituto Evandro Chagas in Pará that Oropouche patients complain of very intense headaches. This could be a potential differentiator. Additionally, about 60% of individuals initially present symptoms that then disappear but eventually return, he stated.

Importance of External Quality Control (EQC)

According to Dr. Felipe, given the current scenario, External Quality Control (EQC), also known as Proficiency Testing (PT), is crucial for maintaining the reliability of diagnoses:

– Proficiency Testing is very important to maintain the quality of tests, especially with a pathogen like Oropouche. So far, what we have observed in sequencing is that we haven’t encountered issues with mutations that could have affected the performance of the assay being used, he noted.

Laboratory routines require continuous monitoring and periodic evaluation, as they play a crucial role in the processes of detection, assessment, response, notification, and monitoring of public health events.

Attentive to the needs of the diagnostic sector, Controllab, in another pioneering initiative, invites laboratories to participate in the first round of Proficiency Testing for Molecular Biology – Oropouche Fever. This test follows the ABNT NBR ISO/IEC 17043 standards and will be sent on September 9th, at no cost to laboratories that indicate their interest via this link by the end of August.

Watch now

Click here to view the complete discussion on the Oropouche Virus in Conversa de Exame.

Also, be sure to subscribe to the Controllab YouTube channel to access educational content produced by the company firsthand.

Scientific summary from Controllab awarded at ADLM 2024 featured in interview

admincontrollab — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 11:40:42 +0000

In a special edition of “Talking A,” Dr. Gustavo Barra highlights important aspects of the work that received international recognition.

The scientific summary “Laboratory Performance in Molecular Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Through Analysis of External Quality Assessment Program Results: WHO-Recommended Tests Outperform Others” received the Personalized Medicine Division Award at ADLM 2024.

Emphasizing the value of the Brazilian External Quality Assessment program (Proficiency Testing – PT) for tuberculosis detection, the work is the result of discussions among Controllab experts with the valuable collaboration of Gustavo Barra, PhD in Molecular Pharmacology and coordinator of the genomics department at Sabin Diagnóstico e Saúde.

Scientific approach

In an exclusive interview, Dr. Gustavo detailed the scientific approach of the summary and highlighted the collaborative partnership that led to international recognition. According to the specialist, Controllab, as a provider of Proficiency Testing, has a comprehensive view of diagnostic medicine in Brazil and the countries where it operates. This allows the company to provide valuable information to both laboratories and patients, positively impacting global health.

– Our work analyzed the performance of Molecular Proficiency Testing for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and found that, overall, laboratories have performed very well, with accuracy exceeding 95% over the past four years, both in detecting the pathogen and identifying resistances. Commercial methods show better performance, and those recommended by the WHO are superior to those without this recommendation, he highlighted.

During the interview, the specialist emphasized that Proficiency Testing is not just a regulatory obligation, but rather the primary tool that laboratories have to self-evaluate and compare their processes with their peers, ensuring the safety and credibility of the results they produce.

Differentiators of the summary

Dr. Gustavo highlighted the differentiators of the award-winning scientific summary compared to other presentations at the event:

– Relevance of the topic, as tuberculosis has become the leading infectious disease causing death after the control of COVID. A well-planned study with broad and robust sampling. Clear recommendations applicable to routine analytical practices regarding preferred methodologies for molecular tuberculosis detection. Lastly, the narrative is based on concrete evidence, highlighting the strength of the summary’s conclusions, he stated.

The scientific summary was selected from among 775 submitted works for the poster hall in the category of the annual meeting, highlighting Controllab’s commitment to fostering quality and promoting knowledge globally through its initiatives and professional integrations.

ADLM 2024 was organized by the Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (ADLM), formerly known as AACC (American Association for Clinical Chemistry). The event brought together experts in the field of laboratory medicine to discuss advancements and challenges in the sector, featuring a rich program of exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and educational sessions.

Watch now

Check out the full approach on Talking about Event.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Controllab’s YouTube channel to access the latest educational content produced by the company.

Increase the reliability of your Pertussis reports

admincontrollab — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 11:00:32 +0000

The accurate identification of the disease plays a crucial role in clinical treatment, considering the symptoms similar to those of common respiratory infections.

Pertussis, a highly contagious disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, has become a global concern due to a significant increase in cases across various countries, including Brazil. As of the date of this publication, the Brazilian Ministry of Health has confirmed 517 cases, more than double the number recorded in 2023.

In this context, it is essential for clinical laboratories to have their routines monitored to ensure efficiency and credibility in diagnosing Bordetella. The issuance of accurate reports contributes to precise medical decisions and successful treatment of the disease.

Additionally, precise reports provide essential information to understand the stage of the disease and the characteristics of the circulating pathogen.

Quality Control Programs for Bordetella

Controllab, a leader in quality control for laboratory tests in Latin America, offers the Bordetella – Molecular Biology and Bordetella sp. – Culture programs.

These programs include Proficiency Testing (PT), also known as External Quality Control (EQC). In these PTs, lyophilized items prepared from an isolation containing the complete genome or clinical samples are sent. This allows for the evaluation of the accuracy of the methods used in identifying the microorganism.

The Bordetella – Molecular Biology program also provides Internal Quality Control (IQC), which promotes continuous monitoring of the analytical routine.

Controllab’s external controls are conducted in accordance with ISO/IEC 17043. Both these and the internal controls provided by the company are designed to meet brazilian regulatory requirements, such as RDC 786/2023, as well as international standards.

Efficiency of Analyses

With the goal of promoting analytical excellence in the identification of respiratory viruses, Controllab also offers the Molecular Panel for Respiratory Infections and Pneumonias, designed for multiplex molecular systems.

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POCT now has quality certification for the batch

admincontrollab — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 12:06:39 +0000

A pioneering initiative by Controllab increases safety in the use of these devices and enhances the reliability of the reports.

POCTs are part of the in vitro diagnostic (IVD) product category and include reagents, substrates, buffer solutions, and other consumables necessary for analysis.

Although they are designed to be accurate, it is essential to validate them and use quality control to monitor the analytical performance of these devices, ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of the tests.

Brazil’s regulatory framework, RDC 786/2023, expanded the use of these POCTs, which were already used in laboratories, collection centers, and hospitals, to also be used in clinics, medical offices, and pharmacies.

With the expansion of the Brazilian market, new POCTs have been introduced, broadening the range of tests available in this modality.

Consistency in POCT batches

Controllab, the largest provider of quality control solutions in Latin America, with its unique expertise in data analysis, has highlighted significant variations in the results of POCTs from different batches of the same manufacturer in its Proficiency Testing, also known as External Quality Assessment (EQA).

In light of this situation, the company undertook several initiatives to improve the quality of these results. However, with the growing use of POCTs, Controllab identified the need for a more robust approach to ensure greater reliability and safety in the batch-to-batch variation of these devices.

This new initiative aims to identify which POCTs maintain consistency across their batches, ensuring higher quality in the analytical process for laboratories and other clinical analysis establishments.

Committed to its mission of helping clients provide accurate and indisputable services, Controllab has launched a program that certifies the quality of performance across POCT batches distributed in Brazil.

Quality certification for POCT

Quality control allows for monitoring that the POCT, along with its reagents and consumables, maintains its properties and effectiveness. This involves performance evaluation testing.

Among quality control practices, it is essential to ensure that the replacement of reagent batches does not affect the analytical routine. To enhance reliability in this assessment, Controllab offers the Batch-by-Batch Certification Program.

In this program, the batches of these products are evaluated according to relevant guidelines and literature, using representative materials from routine use. The goal is to verify if the results between batches are consistent and maintain analytical performance.

Advantages of using batches certified by the Program

By using batches certified by Controllab’s Batch-by-Batch Certification Program, your establishment benefits from a prior evaluation of the batch integrated into the routine, comparing its performance to the previous batch.

The certificate ensures that the batch in use is consistent with previous batches from the same manufacturer, increasing the reliability of the analyses. This certification introduces efficiency and cost savings for your establishment, promoting:

Quality and reliability: Prevents potential issues or deviations that could affect the performance of the devices.
Routine simplification: With certification, the integration of a new batch into analytical processes becomes simpler and more efficient.
Cost and resource reduction: Saves on reagents, time, and effort required for performance testing and analysis between batches, optimizing the frequency of Internal Quality Control.

How to identify batches validated by the Program?

The verification is evidenced by the certificate issued by Controllab. The manufacturer or the holder of the POCT registration provides the certificate to the establishments. Additionally, the certificate can be checked directly on Controllab’s website, on the program page, or through a QR code present on the certificate itself, ensuring the authenticity of the information.

Manufacturers that have already certified their quality

At the forefront of demonstrating the quality of their POCTs, manufacturers Abbott, Biosys, and MedLevensohn have already secured certification for a selection of their products.

These manufacturers meet the needs of their audience by helping to reduce costs and efforts in monitoring the replacement of new reagent batches in the analytical routine. This ensures confidence in their products. Check out the batches that have already received program certification:

To view the updated list of certified batches, please visit this link.

The Batch-by-Batch Certification Program is an innovative initiative for the segment in Brazil. This pioneering effort is a hallmark of Controllab, known for its competence, experience, trust, and innovation. The company is recognized for adhering to major standards related to its operations: ISO 9001, 17025, 17034, and 17043.

For more information about the Batch-by-Batch Certification Program, manufacturers and clinical analysis establishments can access this exclusive channel and speak directly with the specialist for this solution.

Controllab’s Excellence Standard certified by ISQua, a global reference in healthcare

admincontrollab — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 11:07:14 +0000

International recognition highlights the company’s commitment to quality in accordance with the highest standards.

Controllab, the leader in laboratory quality control in Latin America, celebrates the international recognition by the world’s leading accreditation organization for healthcare services, ISQua – International Society for Quality in Health Care.

The excellence standard of Controllab’s International Clinical Laboratories Accreditation Program (ICLAP) has been accredited by ISQua’s External Evaluation Association (ISQuaEEA).

ISQua is a non-profit organization working to improve the quality of healthcare worldwide. Operating in over 70 countries across six continents, ISQua conducts rigorous and independent evaluations of accreditation programs, ensuring they meet the highest international standards.

– Achieving this recognition in a record time of 12 months and being among the leading Brazilian institutions to have its standard accredited by ISQuaEEA is a victory not only for Controllab but for the entire healthcare ecosystem. This accreditation validates how our commitment to excellence in quality, safety, and innovation in healthcare services aligns with the best international practices, says Fernando Berlitz, accreditation and indicators manager at Controllab.

ISQua recognition and Controllab excellence

With several accreditations in its portfolio, including ISO 9001, 17025, 17034, and 17043, Controllab demonstrates its continuous commitment to quality and excellence. The accreditation of ICLAP’s normative standard by ISQuaEAA not only validates the excellence and robustness of its accreditation program but also enables Controllab to extend its expertise, certifying other healthcare establishments and raising global quality standards in clinical laboratories.

For laboratories certified by Controllab’s accreditation program, this means their management system is evaluated and accredited by a normative standard recognized by the world’s leading authority in patient safety and healthcare quality.

Understanding Laboratory Accreditation

Laboratory accreditation is a process that evaluates and certifies a laboratory’s technical competence and compliance with quality standards. This process is essential to ensure that laboratories have management aligned with international best practices and contribute to the excellence of services offered to patients and physicians. The endorsement of a healthcare organization through ISQua’s accreditation seal is recognition that the accrediting institution meets rigorous internationally required standards.

About Controllab’s Accreditation Program

The International Clinical Laboratories Accreditation Program (ICLAP) is an innovative initiative that establishes a streamlined yet robust and effective accreditation standard for clinical laboratories. Developed based on international best practices in Laboratory Medicine and utilizing objective evidence through performance indicators, ICLAP comprehensively addresses all relevant aspects of quality in laboratories.

The ICLAP’s excellence level standard, known as the “Clinical Laboratories Excellence Standards” (CLES), adopts ISQua’s standard guidelines as the prevailing model and covers the essential requirements for clinical laboratories to demonstrate a quality management system focused on continuous improvement and patient safety.

– The CLES standard aims to promote excellence holistically in healthcare, contributing to clinical laboratories offering high-quality services with a continuous focus on process improvement and patient-centered care, emphasizes Berlitz.

International presence

The ICLAP program has an international presence, promoting Controllab’s commitment to spreading quality globally. In Brazil, the company supports the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine – SBPC/ML, in the Clinical Laboratories Accreditation Program (PALC).

The accreditation of ICLAP’s normative standard by ISQua is a milestone that strengthens Controllab as a reference in quality within the segment, driving excellence standards for the benefit of the population and global health.

Verner Willrich Laboratory reveals the value of comparative management of indicators

admincontrollab — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 14:59:31 +0000

The technical director of the organization highlights the positive transformation Metricare has brought to the institution’s results.

How is my laboratory positioned in the market compared to direct competitors? How can I monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of my strategies? How are my financial and resource utilization indicators performing compared to similar organizations?

These are some examples of questions that laboratory managers face, seeking accurate insights to ensure business sustainability. In this context, data management and indicator comparison play a crucial role in the health of companies and marked a turning point in the management of LabVW Laboratory.

With 61 years of history in providing laboratory medicine services in Santa Catarina, the laboratory has served over 700,000 clients in the past five years and conducts approximately 1 million tests annually, delivering results within 24 hours for over 90% of its tests.

Data mnagement and performance indicators

In an exclusive interview with Fernando Berlitz, the manager of indicators and accreditations at Controllab, the company responsible for Metricare, Adriana Helena Sedrez, the technical director of LabVW Laboratory, states that the management of indicators has always been a valued practice at the institution, especially as an accredited laboratory by the PALC program of the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML). However, some limitations prevented broad monitoring:

– Even before the implementation of the PALC standard, we had indicators to monitor our performance. From our PALC accreditation, it became necessary to compare with our peers to set more accurate metrics to our reality. So, we tried to do this with a nearby laboratory, but despite also being PALC accredited, it had some differences, such as not being a hospital service laboratory like Verner. Additionally, we faced resistance to sharing indicator data that was not adequate, she highlights.

According to Adriana, it was in seeking a solution that met the laboratory’s strategic needs, not only to comply with regulatory requirements but also to boost operational efficiency, that LabVW Laboratory turned to Metricare, a data management and indicator platform operated by Controllab.

Metricare drives laboratory growth

LabVW Laboratory actively participates in the Metricare laboratory module. The module includes 400 participating laboratories, covering more than 180 performance indicators in various dimensions and is endorsed by the SBPC/ML. Adriana emphasizes the security Metricare provides for data reporting and how the platform has optimized the laboratory’s routine management:

– Metricare began guiding us in critical analysis meetings because we could identify our market position and, from there, address opportunities for improvement. When I join a program where laboratories from all over Brazil participate, where our data is preserved and treated confidentially only for comparison purposes, we feel much safer providing our information, including the most strategic ones, she states.

According to Adriana, by managing data and comparing specific indicators through Metricare, it became possible to implement much more accurate and secure actions, promoting process optimization and reaching new levels related to the institution’s overall performance.

Efficient management in times of crisis

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many organizations faced challenges that tested the adaptability of managers and administrators. The sudden interruption of supply chains and the drastic change in customer behavior were some of the aspects that forced health organizations to rethink their operational and market strategies.

In this scenario of uncertainties, Adriana reveals how crucial it was to rely on Metricare indicators. While competitors reduced their workforce, renegotiated contracts, and even temporarily or permanently suspended operations, data management and indicator comparison allowed LabVW Laboratory to continue on a growth path:

– During the COVID-19 pandemic, the productivity indicator, for example, was essential in supporting our decision-making. While many of our competitors were closing their doors or reducing their workforce, we realized we were on the opposite path, with increasing productivity, even needing to hire more professionals to meet our demand. The validation of this strategy was only possible because of the comparative analysis of this indicator, she highlights.

Learn more about Metricare

Born from Controllab’s over 47 years of experience in data management and comparative market information – an international reference in quality control – Metricare is a data platform that empowers and enables data-driven decision-making through intense collaboration with users.

With Metricare, health areas interested in reliable market metrics are served to transform data into insights, increase efficiency and add value to services, optimize costs, and strengthen market competitiveness sustainably.

How to boost your analysis establishment?

The rerport of director Adriana details the challenges faced in her management and the solutions found through a data-centric approach transformed into indicators and compared with the market in their uses and applications. Examples of value generation like LabVW Laboratory’s are also identified in other health organizations using the Metricare platform and can transform the management of your laboratory.

Click here and check out the experiences the manager shared and all the positive aspects Metricare laboratory indicators brought to LabVW Laboratory.

Take advantage of this opportunity and learn how to boost your organization’s results!

Brazilian Experience on laboratory indicator comparison featured in IFCC eNews

admincontrollab — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 12:56:50 +0000

Wilson Shcolnik’s letter on his participation in the 2024 Conference in Canada published in the International Federation’s eNews.

In June, Dr. Wilson Shcolnik and Dr. Alex Galoro, representatives of SBPC/ML (Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine), along with Fernando Berlitz, manager of indicators and accreditations at Controllab, presented the Metricare indicator platform at the 2024 Conference. This Brazilian initiative, launched in 2006 by SBPC/ML and Controllab, currently serves around 400 organizations across 17 countries.

The event was organized by the CSCC (Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists) in Quebec, Canada. The experts participated in a symposium that brought together members of the IFCC’s Laboratory Errors and Patient Safety (WG-LEPS) working group to discuss perspectives on improving quality in laboratory medicine and patient safety.

Dr. Wilson Shcolnik shared insights from the experience of comparative management of laboratory indicators, highlighting the contributions of Brazilian data and the development of new indicators, such as those in microbiology. The discussions emphasized international standardization, patient safety, and laboratory sustainability, while also identifying opportunities for improving IFCC guidelines and future projects, benefiting laboratories participating in Metricare.

Following the Conference, Dr. Shcolnik emphasized the importance of this exchange of experiences in a letter to the IFCC, underscoring the following points:

intense interaction with Canadian laboratory professionals and attending professors;
his participation in the IFCC symposium on Quality Improvement in Laboratory Medicine and Patient Safety, scientific workshops on QIs in POCT, and consensus group meetings;
his goals of sharing knowledge about Brazilian clinical laboratories, quality systems, accreditation programs, and the Brazilian quality indicator program;
the key topics discussed in the Consensus Group and the next steps for disseminating the WG-LEPS conclusions and recommendations.

The Federation, recognizing the valuable contributions, published the specialist’s reflections, which you can read in full in the July/August 2024 edition of the newsletter.

This recognition highlights the significance of Metricare on the international stage, solidifying it as an essential tool for comparative management of laboratory indicators, positively impacting global health.

Controllab launches comprehensive Proficiency Testing for Arboviruses

admincontrollab — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 11:53:45 +0000

The company’s pioneering initiative simplifies the evaluation of analytical routines for the identification of arboviruses.

The emergence of new diseases caused by arboviruses, along with others already in circulation, has posed significant challenges to the diagnostic sector. Implementing and monitoring analytical processes for each arbovirus involve multiple validations and tests.

To streamline these routines, In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) manufacturers are offering multiplex kits that enhance the simultaneous detection and differentiation of multiple viruses from a single sample.

This approach enables faster diagnoses, and, like independent analyses, it is crucial that routines involving multiple identifications are evaluated to ensure the reliability of the results.

Attentive to the needs of the sector, Controllab innovates with the Proficiency Testing (PT) for Molecular Panel of Arboviruses, simplifying the evaluation of these analytical routines.

How does the Proficiency Test for Molecular Panel of Arboviruses work?

In this Proficiency Test, lyophilized items prepared from a viral isolate containing the complete genome or clinical samples are sent to participants. This ensures a detailed evaluation of the effectiveness of the methods used for virus identification.

The quarterly frequency of the program allows participants to periodically monitor positive and negative items. The program covers the analysis of Chikungunya, Dengue, Yellow Fever, Mayaro, and Zika Virus, using materials that simulate both isolated infections and coinfections.

If your laboratory conducts molecular tests for arboviruses individually, Controllab offers customized programs for each arbovirus:

Programas	Ensaios disponíveis
Painel Molecular para Arboviroses	Detecção por Biologia Molecular voltado para sistemas do tipo multiplex para Chikungunya; Dengue; Febre Amarela; Zika Vírus e Mayaro
Biologia Molecular - Chikungunya	Chikungunya – Biologia Molecular
Biologia Molecular – Dengue	Dengue – Biologia Molecular e Genotipagem
Biologia Molecular – Febre Amarela	Detecção de Febre Amarela por Biologia Molecular
Biologia Molecular – Mayaro	Detecção de Mayaro por Biologia Molecular
Biologia Molecular – Zika Vírus	Detecção de Zika Vírus por Biologia Molecular
Sequenciamento: Detecção do Genoma Viral	Identificação de patógenos virais por sequenciamento

Important!

Expanding its focus on arboviruses, Controllab, in another pioneering initiative, will conduct the first round of the Proficiency Testing for Molecular Biology – Oropouche Fever on September 9th. To participate, express your interest through this link by the end of August.

Do you want recognition for excellence in your arbovirus reports?

Speak now with a Controllab specialist, enhance the reputation of your facility, and boost your audience’s satisfaction.

Controllab expands quality control for Point-of-Care tests

admincontrollab — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 12:53:38 +0000

The programs provided by the company are essential to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and consistency of the results of this diagnostic modality.

Technological advancements in laboratory medicine have played a crucial role in the miniaturization of diagnostic equipment. This modernization is revolutionizing the way primary healthcare is delivered.

In this context, Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) refers to diagnostic tests performed directly at the patient’s location. These POCTs provide rapid results that assist healthcare professionals.

What is the importance of quality control for POCT?

POCTs fall under the category of in vitro diagnostic (IVD) products and include reagents, substrates, buffer solutions, and other consumables necessary for the analysis.

Although they are designed to be accurate, it is essential to use quality control to monitor the analytical performance of these devices, thereby ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of the tests.

Quality control is carried out using Internal Quality Control (IQC) and Proficiency Testing, also known as External Quality Control (EQA):

Internal Quality Control (IQC) – Monitors the analytical routine of testing facilities, preventing errors and quality deviations from impacting patient results.

External Quality Control (EQA) – Periodic interlaboratory comparison of results to assess the accuracy of the results and the effectiveness of monitoring analytical processes.

Do POCTs with integrated control also need to be monitored by quality control?

It is common for POCTs to have integrated (built-in) control that performs an electronic check of the device and sample flow, indicating whether all present reagents are active and functioning correctly. However, integrated control does not monitor all conditions that may affect test results.

The use of impartial internal controls (third-party samples), which simulate patient samples, is essential for monitoring the device’s performance and identifying potential issues that could compromise patient safety in advance.

To maximize the identification of the conditions described in the table above, it is essential that impartial internal controls are used in conjunction with external quality control.

What controls are provided by Controllab?

Controllab offers external controls (Proficiency Testing) and internal controls that elevate the standards of POCT analytical routines. It is worth noting that the programs are specific to POCTs. The samples are stable, easy to use, and reflect the clinical conditions of patients. Below are the specifications related to each of these controls:

Expansion of quality control programs for POCTs

Controllab’s external controls are conducted in accordance with ISO 17043. Both these and the internal controls provided by the company are designed to meet national regulatory requirements, such as RDC 786/2023, as well as international standards. This ensures confidence in the use of these devices.

To promote the improvement of the quality of healthcare services provided to the public and the analytical reliability of facilities, Controllab offers new controls, including: POCT Hematology; POCT Cystatin; and POCT Qualitative Procalcitonin, detailed as follows:

Programas	Ensaios disponíveis
POCT Hematologia	Série Vermelha, Parâmetros Plaquetários e Série Branca
POCT Cistatina C	Cistatina C
POCT Procalcitonina Qualitativo	Procalcitonina Qualitativo

In addition to these programs, Controllab offers a wide range of controls for POCT, promoting reliable monitoring of routines related to rapid tests.

Do you want recognition for excellence in your Point-of-Care reports?

Speak now with a Controllab specialist, boost your facility’s reputation, and enhance your audience’s satisfaction.

Controllab launches first Proficiency Testing for Oropouche fever

admincontrollab — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 15:00:56 +0000

In another pioneering initiative, the company enhances the reliability of diagnostic reports.

Oropouche fever, caused by the Orthobunyavirus oropoucheense (OROV) arbovirus, is a growing public health concern. It not only has the potential to trigger outbreaks but also presents symptoms that can easily be confused with those of other viral infections such as Zika, Chikungunya, and Dengue.

This symptomatic similarity can complicate diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, ensuring accurate diagnostic reports is crucial for effective surveillance and control of the disease, helping to prevent new infections and outbreaks. According to the technical note from the Brazilian Ministry of Health, as of July 7, 2024, 7,044 cases have been confirmed in the country.

Attentive to the needs of the diagnostic sector, Controllab, in another pioneering initiative, invites laboratories to participate in the first round of the Proficiency Testing for Molecular Biology – Oropouche Fever.

The Proficiency Testing (PT) follows the criteria of ABNT NBR ISO/IEC 17043 and will be sent on September 9. The round will be free of charge for laboratories that express their interest through this link by the end of August.

Suspected cases need to be quickly identified to prevent the spread of the disease and the overload on the healthcare system. This helps avoid self-medication, worsening symptoms, hospitalizations, or deaths.

Importance of monitoring and evaluating analytical routines

The Proficiency Testing, also known as External Quality Control, is an effective tool for determining the analytical performance of the laboratory, helping to standardize new diagnostic tests for the disease.

Additionally, it is a necessary requirement for laboratory accreditation processes (ISO 15189, ISO 17025, PALC-SBPC/ML, DICQ-SBAC, etc.) and regulatory bodies.

Join us!

Controllab announces a webinar on internal control

admincontrollab — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 12:02:36 +0000

The online meeting discussed the implementation and importance of the effective use of this quality control tool in analytical establishments.

The recording of the online meeting “Unveiling Internal Control” is now available. Take the opportunity to expand your knowledge on the topic with the lecture given by Marília Corrêa, Chemical Engineer and Technical Analyst in the Service Management sector at Controllab.

The specialist covered quality control (QC) and its tools, including Internal Control (IC), presented the definition of IC, and detailed how it works; explained the various evaluations and the importance of IC and its documents; and, finally, highlighted the benefits of using QC tools.

Clarification of doubts

The information presented addressed the doubts and broadened the professionals’ understanding of the benefits of applying an efficient internal control routine to identify and eliminate errors inherent in the analysis process.

One of the participants who attended the live session stated that “the lecture was comprehensive, with precise and clarifying guidance for professionals working within a laboratory.“

Watch now

Check out the recording of the lecture here!

It’s worth noting that live participation allows you to clarify your doubts about the topic discussed, as well as ensuring your participation certificate, which is essential for demonstrating professional development.

On the Online Meeting page, you can watch recordings of all the lectures hosted by Controllab. Take advantage of this opportunity and subscribe to the company’s channels on WhatsApp and YouTube to stay updated on all the content produced promptly.

Is your analytical routine prepared to identify the Mayaro virus?

admincontrollab — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 11:29:28 +0000

Due to symptoms similar to other arboviral diseases, the correct identification of Mayaro Fever is essential for effective clinical treatment.

Rising global temperatures are allowing mosquitoes to invade new areas and increase the incidence of diseases transmitted by these vectors.

In this context, the Mayaro virus (MAYV), endemic in tropical regions, is on the rise. MAYV is transmitted by the wild mosquito Haemagogus janthinomys, the same mosquito that transmits Yellow Fever.

Although there are no records of transmission in Brazil by urban mosquitoes, such as Aedes aegypti, laboratory tests have already demonstrated the capability of this species to transmit the virus.

Efficiency of analyses

The correct identification of Mayaro cases is an important ally for clinical treatment given the similarities with other febrile diseases, such as Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya.

Analytical establishments need to
have their routines validated and monitored to ensure the efficiency of analyses and
provide reliable results. The issuance of accurate reports contributes to
precise medical decisions.

The distinction of other viruses that cause symptoms which can be confused in a clinical diagnosis is fundamental for more specific treatment and for recognizing the excellence of the analytical establishment.

Quality control for Mayaro

Controllab, a leading company in quality control for tests in Latin America, has pioneered by offering a Molecular Biology program for the Mayaro virus.

The Mayaro program includes the Proficiency Testing (PT), also known as External Control. In this PT, lyophilized samples are sent, prepared from a viral isolate containing the complete genome, allowing participants to report the detection kits and genes used in their routine.

To assist analytical routines in distinguishing other viruses, Controllab also offers the Sequencing PT: Viral Genome Detection. This program alternately sends different viruses of epidemiological interest for identification.

Do you want recognition for excellence in your reports?

Speak now with a Controllab specialist
to boost your establishment’s reputation
and enhance your audience’s satisfaction.

Controllab participates in ADLM 2024 and reaffirms its commitment to the promotion of knowledge

admincontrollab — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 11:39:57 +0000

The company will discuss the Brazilian indicators program in a scientific session and present scientific abstracts on dengue and tuberculosis at an international congress.

Controllab’s global presence also includes participation in highly relevant international events, such as ADLM 2024, which will take place in Chicago, United States, from July 28 to August 1.

Organized by the Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine (ADLM), formerly known as the American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC), the congress will bring together specialists and leaders in the field of laboratory medicine to discuss advances and challenges in the area, with a rich program of exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and educational sessions.

Controllab and its educational focus

During this year’s edition of ADLM, Controllab will reinforce its commitment to the promotion of knowledge and excellence in laboratory medicine.

The manager of indicators and accreditations, Fernando Berlitz, will represent the company in the scientific session “International Quality Indicators: Experiences, Opportunities, and Challenges” on July 29, from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM (Chicago time). The specialist will share valuable experiences about the Brazilian indicators program and the relevance of benchmarking in laboratory processes.

Additionally, Controllab will have two scientific abstracts displayed in the event’s poster hall. The abstracts highlight the value of the Brazilian external quality assessment program. They are:

“Evaluating RT-qPCR for Dengue Virus Detection: Outcomes of a Brazilian External Quality Assessment Program”;
“Laboratory Performance in Molecular Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Through Analysis of External Quality Assessment Program Results: WHO-Recommended Tests
Outperform Others”.

Professional insights

ADLM 2024 is another opportunity for scientific exchange, sharing experiences with specialists from various parts of the world, and gaining numerous insights for professionals in the field.

Therefore, Controllab, always by your side, will undertake initiatives to share key information about the event. To stay updated, it is important for interested parties to keep an eye on the website, the company’s social media profiles (Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn), and the WhatsApp channel.

Watch the recording of the lecture on the diagnosis of acute leukemias by multiparametric flow cytometry

admincontrollab — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:08:48 +0000

The Online Meeting that covered the basic principles of the methodology and other relevant aspects of the topic is now available.

Didn’t participate live in the educational initiative promoted by Controllab?

Now is your chance to expand your knowledge about advancements in the identification of acute leukemias, the interpretation of results, and their clinical relevance according to recent practices.

The recording of the Online Meeting led by Dr. Elen de Oliveira, a biomedical specialist in hematology and a PhD in science from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), is now available.

What points were covered?

During the lecture, the specialist discussed:

The basic principles of flow cytometry and its application in the diagnosis and monitoring of acute leukemias.
The identification of normal and pathological cell subpopulations according to immunophenotypic expression.
Future perspectives in flow cytometry for the diagnosis of acute leukemias.

Participants maximized their knowledge and practical applicability during the meeting. One participant stated that “the lecture was very well delivered, the content was clear, and the language was highly understandable. Rich in information.”

Watch now

Check out the lecture recording here!

It’s worth noting that live participation allows you to clarify any questions you have about the topic and ensures that you receive a participation certificate, which is essential for demonstrating professional development.

Check out recordings of other lectures on the Online Meeting page. Take the opportunity to subscribe to Controllab’s channels on WhatsApp and YouTube to stay updated on all the content produced by the company quickly and expand your knowledge.

Laboratory management professionals enhance their skills in data analysis and interpretation

admincontrollab — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 11:45:12 +0000

Metricare promotes an Online Forum with practical cases and strategies to boost the efficiency and competitiveness of laboratories.

In the months of June and July, managers and professionals from the laboratories participating in Metricare expanded their knowledge through the Online Forum designed to enhance the efficiency of comparative laboratory data management, in compliance with RDC 786/2023. The initiative, held periodically, aims to create a collaborative and enriching learning environment.

The event was led by the Controllab team of experts and featured significant discussions on two essential indicators for laboratory sustainability: “Result Delays” and “Technical Productivity.”

During his presentation, Fernando Berlitz, Accreditation and Indicators Manager at Controllab, emphasized the need to align delivery times with the laboratory’s strategy: “Sometimes, the best test result in the world, delivered far beyond the promised deadline, has little use for the patient or the doctor.” He added: “A broader delivery timeframe can reduce delays but compromises the laboratory’s strategic dynamics, decreasing its competitiveness and appeal to clients.”

Regarding technical productivity, Berlitz highlighted the importance of evaluating the laboratory’s efficiency in using its human resources, considering the influence of factors related to technology, time, test volume, and process quality.

Exchange of experiences and practical insights

One of the most valuable moments of the event was the active participation of users, who shared their questions and successful practices. This exchange of experiences contributed to collective learning, allowing participants to gain practical insights to improve their process performance.

The discussions presented at the Metricare Online Forum highlighted how comparative indicator management is crucial for achieving a strategic vision and making informed decisions, ensuring the efficiency and competitiveness of laboratories.

The professionals present at the event deepened their skills in interpreting comparative results, which will enable them to identify trends, patterns, and improvement opportunities in their laboratories. One participant stated: “I always understand that the resources and dynamics used contribute to the understanding of the subject.”

Promoting efficiency and sustainability in healthcare

Through events like this, Metricare aims not only to expand the qualified use of its platform but also to empower the managers and professionals who lead the strategies and processes of analysis establishments.

Based on this enhancement in data interpretation, these professionals identify improvement opportunities to strengthen the competitiveness of laboratories in the market, promoting the adoption of more efficient operational and strategic practices. This approach not only benefits laboratories and their clients but also contributes to the improvement of healthcare services, driving innovation, patient care quality, and the overall sustainability of the healthcare sector.

The next edition of the forum, exclusive to Metricare users, is scheduled for August 13th and will cover Customer/Patient Satisfaction indicators. It will be an unmissable opportunity for managers and marketing and customer service professionals to gain essential information for maintaining the quality of service and offerings, promoting sustainable growth for the laboratory.

Want to enhance the efficiency of your laboratory and join this leading group in the market? Visit metricare.com.br/en/ to learn more.

POCT Internal Control for Influenza A and B: monitoring routines for accurate reports

admincontrollab — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 11:51:06 +0000

The Controllab Program includes three distinct levels (positive for Influenza A, positive for Influenza B, and negative), allowing the evaluation of interferences and cross-reactions in analytical systems.

Influenza viruses circulate year-round, intensifying in winter when people shelter from the cold in enclosed spaces, facilitating transmission. In Brazil, an increase in cases has been identified earlier than expected.

This anticipation, combined with other circulating diseases, has required rapid and accurate diagnostics to prevent the worsening of illnesses and the overloading of the healthcare system, avoiding self-medication, worsening of symptoms, hospitalizations, or deaths.

Reliability in analytical routines

In this scenario, clinical analysis establishments need to have their routines monitored to prevent incorrect reports from contributing to the lack of adequate diagnoses.

At the forefront of contributing to the improvement of the quality of healthcare services offered to the population, Controllab provides an additional control to help establishments demonstrate the reliability of their routines: POCT Influenza A and B.

The control is composed of three distinct levels:

positive specific for Influenza A;
positive specific for Influenza B;
negative.

This approach allows for the evaluation of potential interferences and cross-reactions in analytical systems. Additionally, the control includes reference values obtained through interlaboratory comparison, reflecting the reality of various laboratories using different POCT systems.

The quantitative and qualitative data are grouped by POCT device, presenting the performance of these systems individually.

External and internal controls

Controllab provides external and internal controls that raise the standard of analytical routines. Controllab’s internal control materials are unbiased (third-party opinion) and detect variations not perceived in the controls provided by the manufacturers of the analytical system.

In addition to POCT Influenza A and B, Controllab also offers internal controls for POCT Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and POCT Coronavirus (SARS-CoV2), ensuring reliable monitoring of respiratory virus routines.

Do you want recognition for excellence in your flu virus reports?

Speak now with a Controllab specialist and boost your establishment’s reputation and your audience’s satisfaction.

Controllab

Controllab participates in the XIV Discussion In Laboratory Medicine

Controllab at the event

Integration of science, practice, and innovation in clinical diagnostics

Commitment to quality and laboratory reliability

Controllab brings its expertise to clinical laboratory scientific events in Panama

Watch the recording of the class on paraproteinemias and monoclonal gammopathies and strengthen your knowledge

Hemoparasitosis in animals: Watch the Recorded Class and Improve Your Diagnostic Interpretation

What Was Covered in the Class

Practical Application: Why Does This Content Matter?

Controllab takes part in the international conference on new trends in microbial identification

Phytobacter: Misidentification Can Mask a Clinically Relevant Pathogen

Metricare Certificate recognizes laboratories with indicator-based management

Laboratory indicators in routine operations

Recognition and institutional positioning

Participation in indicator initiatives is growing in the sector

Harmonization of Laboratory Indicators: International Study Examines Cross-Country Comparability Challenges

Mpox: reliability of results in routine laboratory practice

Global Quality, Local Practice: What the IFCC Meeting Brings to the Daily Routine of Laboratories

The 2025 Proficiency Certificate highlights confidence in the results

Independent assessment that underpins quality

A certification recognized by the sector

When certification goes beyond the technical environment

Your quality is already recognized. Now it’s time to show it.

Is your analytical control partial or complete?

What defines analytical coverage

The direct impact on technical management

Expanding coverage strengthens quality

Complete coverage as a sign of technical maturity

Controllab for everyone: quality that drives the evolution of analytical services

Support for laboratories of all sizes

Quality that connects the present to the future

Time to strengthen the foundations for growth

If every decision impacts quality, which tests in your routine could still benefit from Controllab’s support?

From evidence to practice: Controllab studies inspire advances in laboratory quality

Evidence that transforms practice

1. Accuracy in reading ANA patterns by HEp-2 immunofluorescence

2. Anti-HIV and Anti-HCV by POCT: 14 years of performance monitoring

3. Syphilis: increasing quality in the use of rapid tests

4. HPV: commercial kits outperform laboratory-developed tests

5. Laboratory indicators: stability and challenges in pre-analytical processes

6. Patient safety: perception still varies among professional categories

Technical leadership and commitment to quality

Transform Quality Control into safer and more strategic decisions

Clarity and confidence for decisions that drive results

Security and reliability

A new level for quality management

Recognition and partnerships that reinforce credibility

Discover the power of Analytical QC BI

Manage your Internal Control with expert intelligence

CI Online: Intelligence applied to control data

Complete solution for laboratory quality internal control

Ensure greater convenience and confidence in monitoring your analyses

Increase confidence in your results

Simplify your quality control routine

Optimize quality management

Controllab Internal Control: analytical security at every step

Your analytical routine can go further

SBPC/ML and CBDL support Batch-to-Batch Certification for POCTs

Consistency assurance in every batch

An initiative that inspires trust

Certification that benefits everyone

Benefits for organizations performing tests

Healthcare services, how to obtain the certificate?

Benefits for manufacturers and registration holders

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Reference strains produced in compliance with ISO 17034: a new standard for your microbiological routine

Have you considered incorporating reference strains recognized as Certified Reference Materials into your routine?

Equivalence of the main culture collections

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Want to ensure analytical quality and strengthen confidence in your results?

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Contamination in medicines: how to monitor the safety of your processes?

Controllab showcases innovations that raise the standard of testing

Multi-equipment reports: before and after interlaboratory comparison

Multi-microscopist reporting: better-aligned teams

Healthcare services,
how to obtain the certificate?

Manufacturer,
how to obtain the certificate?