Proficiency Testing Programme for Haematology Laboratories in Bauchi State, North East Nigeria

This study assesses the status of external quality assurance through proficiency testing among haematology laboratories in Bauchi State, North East Nigeria, and proposes a structured proficiency testing programme for the state. Laboratory proficiency testing is a cornerstone of quality assurance, ensuring that analytical results are reliable and clinically actionable, yet participation in external quality assessment schemes remains low in Nigerian haematology laboratories. A cross-sectional facility assessment was conducted at 18 haematology laboratories in Bauchi State, including government hospitals, private clinics, and faith-based hospital facilities. A structured assessment tool evaluated participation in external quality assessment schemes, internal quality control practices, equipment calibration records, and result turnaround time. Only 3 of 18 laboratories participated in any recognised external proficiency testing programme. Internal quality controls were performed daily in only 5 facilities. Equipment calibration records were available in 8 facilities. Result reporting errors (clinically significant inaccuracies) were identified in 22 percent of simulated samples distributed as part of the study assessment. The study demonstrates significant quality gaps in haematology laboratory services in Bauchi State and recommends establishment of a state-coordinated proficiency testing programme, mandatory participation as a condition of laboratory licensing, and a peer review network of haematology laboratory heads to share quality improvement strategies under the supervision of the Bauchi State Ministry of Health. Keywords: proficiency testing, external quality assurance, haematology laboratory, Bauchi State, laboratory quality.