Besides reference materials (RMs) and reference measurement procedures (RMPs) reference measurement services (RMS) are the third pillar of reference measurement systems in laboratory medicine. Bringing RMs and RMPs into action they link IVD end user’s matrix-based calibrators and primary standards in the traceability chain. In most cases, RMS are provided by so-called reference or calibration laboratories accredited according to ISO 17025 and 15195. Their core activity is usually considered to be target value assignment
1. to secondary RMs,
2. to IVD manufacturers’ commercial calibrators, control materials and/or panels of patient samples for method validation, and
3. to control materials used in external quality assessment of clinical laboratories (EQA schemes).
However, in order to fulfil their responsibilities within the calibration hierarchy in laboratory medicine, RMS engage in a number of international scientific activities and committees.
In this talk, we will discuss
1. RMS’ particular role within the measurement infrastructure implementing traceability in laboratory medicine.
2. RMS’ various fields of activity and how these are meant to further quality in laboratory medicine.
3. Challenges RMS’ and their partners are facing and possible strategies to overcome these.
