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Cytology Proficiency Testing

Guidance for CMS-approved Cytology Proficiency Testing (PT) Programs for calendar year 2019.

Final

Issued by: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

Issue Date: February 12, 2019

The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) regulations at Section 493.855(a) state: "The laboratory must ensure that each individual engaged in the examination of gynecologic preparations is enrolled in a proficiency testing (PT) program approved by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) . . ."  

The CMS-approved Cytology Proficiency Testing (PT) Programs for calendar year 2023 are:

  • the College of American Pathologists, and
  • the American Society for Clinical Pathology program.

For additional CLIA cytology PT information, refer to the links below.

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DISCLAIMER: The contents of this database lack the force and effect of law, except as authorized by law (including Medicare Advantage Rate Announcements and Advance Notices) or as specifically incorporated into a contract. The Department may not cite, use, or rely on any guidance that is not posted on the guidance repository, except to establish historical facts.