Alternative Assessment
The Sample Exchange Registry is an Internet-based service designed to connect laboratories performing testing where no formal proficiency testing (PT) is available. Laboratories can participate in the registry service at any time.
When at least three laboratories are identified as testing for the same analyte, the CAP will facilitate the sample exchange. The laboratories will test the samples and send their results to the CAP. The data will be made anonymous, and each individual laboratory will receive its own results along with an anonymous summary report of all the participants.
Laboratories must have a CAP number to participate in the Sample Exchange Registry — a free service offered to participants when a CAP survey is not offered. To obtain a CAP number, complete only the first two demographic pages of the Laboratory Improvement Programs Order Form and send to cdm@cap.org or call the customer contact center at 1-800-323-4040.
For all Therapeutic Drug monitoring (TDM) analytes, sample exchanges will be facilitated by the CAP. TDM material type/matrices may have limitations, therefore, sample exchanges will be initiated only if material can be obtained. However, a blank Sample Exchange Registry for Alternative Assessment result form for reporting all other toxicology drugs (e.g., synthetic cannabinoids and novel psychoactive substances (NPS)) are available for laboratories that want to participate in a self-exchange. When a toxicology self-exchange is submitted, permission is granted to share laboratory contact information with other requesting laboratories.
Complete the Sample Exchange submission form for alternative assessment.
Share the Sample Exchange Registry with a Colleague
Laboratories often correspond with colleagues who test similar analytes. Share the Sample Exchange Registry for Alternative Assessment program with a colleague — they’ll get access to the program webpage along with information on the specific analytes available for exchange.
Once you click on “Share the Sample Exchange Program” an email will generate. Be sure to:
- Add any information regarding specific analytes your colleague may be interested in participating.
- Replace “replace_email@cap.org” with your colleague’s email address.
If questions arise, email exchangereg@cap.org.