The oxcarbazepine metabolite is distributed in 1ml lyophilised human serum. Methotrexate is contained in a 1ml sample of lyophilised human serum. A variance index scoring system is used to assess performance of UK participants on behalf of the National Quality Assurance Advisory Panel for Chemical Pathology. The latter analysis is also used twice a year to prepare a summary report of data from the previous 12 months. Comparisons of the precision and accuracy of assay techniques are performed at regular intervals for publication.
Participants receive all such reports and can request details of preliminary findings.
The scheme proposes to distribute interactive questions on the interpretation of results and associated laboratory actions relating to therapeutic drug monitoring. The objective of these educational surveys is to improve clinical services.