EQAS Program User Guide - QCNet

Chapter 8: Frequently Asked QuestionsQuestion:Answer:My data did not get processed when I sent it in by the due date (my report shows “MissingResult”). Why?To be included in the statistical comparison, results must arrive at Bio-Rad, Irvine, CA, USAbefore 20:00 GMT on the Sample Due Date. The two most common causes for data notbeing processed when submitted on time are:1) The transmission of results was not complete (there was a problem with the fax, email, orinternet).2) Results not being associated with valid (or incomplete) test codes.Question:Answer:Why am I missing the result for an analyte when I submitted it?Any one of the following could result in a “Missing Result (-)” on your report for an analyteresult that you submitted:• The result for the analyte was received late (after the close of the sample).• The result (paper submission) written in the form (or the facsimile) was illegible and nocontact information was on file for verification.• You submitted results using an unacceptable (nonstandard) results form.• The result did not have a valid registration code associated with it.• The result was entered as for the wrong cycle or sample number.Question:Answer:I sent my results via EQAS eForms 2 and I received a confirmation. However, my reportshows “Missing Result” for my submission.Your EQAS eForms 2 results may have been submitted in the wrong program/cycle/sampleor an incorrect combination of these. There may also have been an error in the transmissionof the EQAS eForms 2 file.Question:Answer:Why am I compared using the Method comparator instead of the Peer comparator?There were an insufficient number of participants reporting on the same instrument/reagentfor that sample at the time of the sample close. Although there must be at least 9 acceptedpeer-specific results for a formal comparison to be made at the Peer level, laboratories shouldevaluate their peer comparison when fewer than 9 participants’ results were accepted. TheEQAS Program comparator for that analyte/sample combination will however, be made at aMethod or Mode/All Results level depending on the number of accepted results.Question:Answer:My data more closely reflects a different Mode. How can I change modes?We appreciate that you are carefully reviewing the comparisons in your EQAS report. If youfeel that your comparison better fits another mode, contact EQAS Technical Support ateqas_support@bio-rad.com. You will work with Technical Support personnel to establish ifyour method should be placed in another mode and if so, what coding is appropriate to use.EQAS Program User Guide 93