At the University of Missouri Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (VMDL), quality is more than a standard, it’s a promise. Every result we deliver reflects our commitment to accuracy, reliability and scientific integrity.
The VMDL is accredited by the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD), and a robust quality assurance system is a key requirement of that accreditation. Our Quality Assurance (QA) program ensures that every test performed in our laboratory meets nationally recognized standards and provides trustworthy information for veterinarians, producers and public health partners.
Our quality assurance system
The VMDL Quality Assurance System is guided by two primary documents: the Quality Manual and the Quality Procedures.
- The Quality Manual outlines our quality policies and overarching practices.
- The Quality Procedures identify the specific areas covered by Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) — detailed, written instructions for every diagnostic test and process.
Each SOP describes validated, recognized methods that have been tested either at the VMDL, by veterinary biomedical companies, or through federal reference laboratories such as the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL). These SOPs ensure our diagnostic results are consistently accurate, repeatable and scientifically sound.
Training and competency
Quality assurance begins with people. Every VMDL technician is trained under the supervision of experienced faculty and section heads using approved SOPs.
- Trainees must demonstrate skill and reliability before being authorized to handle client samples.
- Training records are verified and filed, and competency is re-evaluated annually.
- Faculty and staff are encouraged and supported to pursue continuing education, including external workshops, symposia and scientific meetings, to stay current with emerging diagnostics and technologies.
Our commitment to you
Clients of the VMDL can expect results that are accurate, reliable and appropriate for their diagnostic needs. Our Quality Assurance System is designed to uphold that standard in every test, every time — ensuring the highest level of confidence in the results that protect animal and human health.
(VMDL faculty and staff only)