Tools, Technologies and Training for Healthcare Laboratories

HbA1c in 2010, Part XI

In this, the final installment of an extended discussion of HbA1c methods and the analytical quality necessary for patient care, we hear feedback from the original authors of the 2010 study.

HbA1c in 2010, Part IX

The ninth of an extended discussion of HbA1c methods and the analytical quality necessary for patient care. This discussion finally starts to plot performance on a Method Decision chart. Turning numbers into easily understood graphic displays - that's the best part of statistics. So how many HbA1c methods hit the bullseye, and how many miss the target completely?

HbA1c in 2010, Part VIII

The eighth part of an extended discussion of HbA1c methods and the analytical quality necessary for patient care. This discussion tackles the subject of how we make decisions about the acceptability of performance. We may run studies, calculate statistics, but how do we interpret them in the end? Using Sigma-metrics and a tool called the Method Decision chart, we can make decisions clearer.

HbA1c in 2010, Part VII

The seventh part of an extended discussion of HbA1c methods and the analytical quality necessary for patient care. This discussion tackles the subject of how we judge method performance. We may run studies, calculate statistics, but how do we interpret them in the end? With POC devices, a new tool called "error grids" is increasingly coming into play.

HbA1c in 2010, Part VI

The sixth part of an extended discussion of HbA1c methods and the analytical quality necessary for patient care. Studies in the literature can generate loads of statistics. But readers may find it hard to determine if the right numbers were calculated - or what conclusions should be drawn from the statistics that were calculated.