At AACC booth 4647, Cola Resources Inc (CRI), Columbia, Md, the educational subsidiary of Cola, is preparing to showcase its IQCP E-Optimizer, a software program designed to help laboratories implement the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ new Individualized Quality Control Plan (IQCP) guidelines that will go into effect January 1, 2016.

CRI will also hold an interactive workshop on strategies for implementing an IQCP plan on Friday, July 31, from 8:30 am to 4 pm, at the Sheraton Atlanta Downtown. The workshop offers six professional acknowledgment for continuing education (PACE) credits.

The company’s E-Optimizer helps labs evaluate their current QC methods, provides customized recommendations on how to align QC programs with IQCP guidelines, and offers guidance for developing and implementing an individualized test system. The tool can be customized for any test system in a laboratory, including waived-, moderate-, or high-complexity tests.

The program’s key objectives include performing a meaningful risk assessment; creating an economically and clinically beneficial QC plan; and adhering to federal, state, and accrediting organization requirements, among other goals.

“Because IQCP takes a more comprehensive approach to quality control, CRI developed this tool to clearly explain the steps labs need to take to both understand and implement it, “says James Liggins, president of CRI. “But with just a few months left to complete an IQCP plan, labs have to move quickly if they are going to be ready by the implementation deadline.”

The E-Optimizer also comes in a companion workbook format called the CRI Implementation Guide.

AACC attendees are eligible for a $50 discount on purchases of the E-Optimizer, workbook, or an implementation package that includes both tools. Use the coupon code “IQCPAACC.” The offer is valid until August 31. For more information, including ordering information, visit CRI.