Evaluation of HIV serology laboratory performance in Thailand’s 4th and 13th Health Regions during the fiscal years 2018-2024
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14456/taj.2026.3Keywords:
proficiency testing, external quality assessment, HIV serology testingAbstract
Evaluation of laboratory performance is a key component of laboratory quality assurance. The National Institute of Health, Thailand implemented an external quality assessment (EQA) program for HIV serology testing to monitor and enhance the performance of laboratories in Thailand’s 4th and 13th health regions during fiscal years 2018-2024. Proficiency testing samples were prepared using plasma from both HIV-infected and non-infected individuals. These samples were characterized and assessed for homogeneity and stability in accordance with ISO/IEC 17043:2010. Proficiency testing panels were distributed to participating laboratories three times annually. A total of 263 - 291 laboratories participated in the program, with response rates ranging from 95.30% to 99.41%. The majority of laboratories used rapid HIV antibody test kits (57.45%), followed by machine-based HIV antigen–antibody test kits (30.01%) and rapid HIV antigen–antibody test kits (6.89%). Overall accuracy rates ranged from 91.76% to 98.86%. The highest proportion of incorrect results was observed among private hospitals and clinics. Errors most frequently occurred during the post-analytical phase (48.11%). The EQA program serves as a critical tool in reflecting and promoting the quality of HIV serology testing laboratories. Participation in such programs enables laboratories to identify performance gaps and implement corrective actions, thereby improving the reliability and accuracy of HIV testing services.
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