UK NEQAS Cellular Pathology Technique (CPT) is part of a not-for-profit consortium delivering trusted External Quality Assessment (EQA) and Proficiency Testing (PT) services essential to modern laboratory medicine. Recognised internationally as a leader in Cellular Pathology EQA, we support laboratories worldwide through both physical and digital schemes, enabling consistent participation across global networks.

Our expert-led schemes are developed and managed by specialists in laboratory and clinical diagnostics and delivered to the highest standards. By working closely with UK oversight bodies, we help strengthen governance, improve patient safety, and ensure diagnostic results are safe, comparable, and clinically meaningful—wherever testing takes place.

UK NEQAS CPT advances patient care through innovative scheme development, expert guidance, and a strong focus on education and professional development. We support the harmonisation of diagnostic quality through masterclasses, e-learning, webinars, and tailored training designed to meet evolving laboratory needs.

With over 1,500 participating laboratories in more than 50 countries, our secure EQA and PT schemes provide high-quality, clinically relevant samples in both physical and digital formats. All samples are assessed by qualified Cellular Pathology experts using consistent grading, anonymous comparison, and peer review to ensure robust and reliable performance monitoring.



Through continuous engagement and accessible educational resources, UK NEQAS CPT fosters a global culture of quality, supporting laboratories to meet evolving standards and improve patient outcomes.

Participation in UK NEQAS Cellular Pathology Technique (CPT) supports laboratories in maintaining best practice, demonstrating technical proficiency, and achieving continuous quality improvement. Participants benefit from proactive, specialist-led support from a multidisciplinary expert team, including direct access to troubleshooting advice to help resolve issues early and protect patient care.

Education is central to participation. Through performance data analysis, trend monitoring, and the sharing of best practice, laboratories can audit and enhance their services. Participants gain valuable insight into assay performance over time, across methodologies, and between networks, all aligned with international standards.

UK NEQAS CPT provides comprehensive quality assurance through an intuitive online platform, enabling efficient data submission, personalised performance reports, and detailed feedback. Annual Performance Reports include international benchmarking, helping laboratories monitor compliance, quality, and progress.

As a not-for-profit organisation, UK NEQAS CPT offers participants access to a wide range of educational opportunities, including scientific meetings, masterclasses, e-learning, and expert-led workshops. Ongoing collaboration with professional bodies and industry partners ensures alignment with current and emerging national and international guidelines.

Additional benefits include:

• Clinically relevant case studies that support diagnostic confidence
• Independent quality assessment, regardless of accreditation status
• Access to experienced experts for tailored guidance
• Clear, constructive feedback to support improvement and accreditation

All schemes are supported by Specialist Advisory Panels of international experts. Expert Peer Assessors—fully trained and competency assessed—ensure consistent, high-quality evaluation, while Specialist Scheme Coordinators provide ongoing technical support.



Ultimately, participation in UK NEQAS CPT demonstrates a laboratory’s commitment to accuracy, quality, and accountability. It supports reliable diagnostics, safer clinical decision-making, and improved outcomes for patients—contributing to safer, more effective healthcare for all.