Why Competency Evaluation Matters
Ongoing competency evaluation ensures that laboratory personnel continue to perform testing correctly over time. CLIA requires labs to assess competency at defined intervals for each person and each test system they use.
CLIA Competency Frequency
- At the end of initial training, before independent testing.
- At six months after starting patient testing.
- At 12 months after starting patient testing.
- Annually thereafter.
Required Elements of Competency Assessment
Competency evaluations typically include:
- Direct observation of routine patient test performance.
- Monitoring result reporting and communication.
- Review of test records, QC, and maintenance documentation.
- Direct observation of instrument maintenance and function checks.
- Assessment of problem-solving and corrective action skills.
- Testing previously analyzed specimens or proficiency samples.
Challenges in Managing Competency
- Multiple test systems per technologist across departments.
- High staff turnover or cross-coverage between shifts.
- Paper forms stored in different locations and formats.
Competency Tracking in mylabcompliance.io
mylabcompliance.io simplifies competency management by:
- Creating a digital profile for each employee with assigned test systems.
- Generating competency schedules based on CLIA intervals.
- Providing standardized electronic competency forms.
- Sending reminders for upcoming or overdue assessments.
- Allowing supervisors to sign off electronically and attach evidence.