Using Proficiency Testing to Ensure Accurate Serologic Testing of SARS-CoV-2

As we move into the next phase of the pandemic, laboratories are ramping up efforts to implement SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing to identify individuals who may have been infected with SARS-CoV-2 in the past. In this CAPcast, Dr. Daniel Rhoads, Section Head of Microbiology at the Cleveland Clinic and Dr. Elitza Theel, Director of Infectious Disease Serology from Mayo Clinic explain the clinical use of antibody testing for SARS-CoV-2 and describe the work of the CAP’s Microbiology and Diagnostic Immunology and Flow Cytometry Committees to develop the new proficiency testing program SARS-CoV-2 Serology (COVS). The new SARS-CoV-2 Serology PT program is available today (https://capatholo.gy/3d9u4DR). The program code is COVS, and the first shipment is scheduled for June 22, 2020. Visit the COVID-19 page (https://www.cap.org/covid-19) on the CAP’s web site for the latest news and resources, including those for proficiency testing customers and CAP-accredited laboratories. The COVID-19 page offers useful links to helpful tools and resources to clarify rules of compliance as you implement COVID-19 testing in your laboratory.