The VMDL Quality Assurance system exists to provide the assurance to you, the client, that the results you receive from us are the best possible work done by trained personnel who are using known and recognized techniques and methods. The VMDL is accredited by the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD) and a requirement for accreditation is to have a robust quality assurance system.
AAVLD Accreditation Certificate
Our system is directed by a Quality Manual and the Quality Procedures. These two written booklets outline our policies and practices (Quality Manual) and what areas are covered by written SOPs (Quality Procedures). SOPs, short for Standard Operating Procedures, are written instructions for tests and procedures. As examples, there is an SOP for performing a necropsy and, as well, an SOP for conducting an Influenza A PCR test. These procedures have been tested, either here at the VMDL, at veterinary biomedical companies, or at federal veterinary services laboratories, such as NVSL, with known samples and are proven to be accurate and reliable.
The SOPs are used by experienced personnel and supervisors to train technicians. When technicians have shown their skill and reliability to a supervisor’s satisfaction, they are then allowed to work on client samples. Training documents are signed by the Section Head and filed as a record of this employee training. Training is re-evaluated yearly for all personnel. In line with that, we encourage and support all faculty and staff to attend outside training opportunities, such as courses, symposia and scientific meetings. You have every right to expect the results you receive from us to be accurate, reliable and appropriate for your needs. Our Quality Assurance System is what makes that possible.
QA Site Access
(VMDL Faculty & Staff only)