Participating in B-PTS studies provides laboratories with an objective means for assessing and demonstrating the reliability of their data. Participants are therefore asked to use their routine methods for B-PTS studies, instead of a non-standard method, which can sometimes be prescribed for a collaborative study.

A study protocol is sent to participants by e-mail at least 2 weeks before the B-PTS samples are shipped.

The study protocol provides general information on:

• how to process the samples, noting in particular that laboratories should test panel samples using their established, routinely used assay;
• the conditions of storage, taking into consideration any limitations at the participating laboratories;
• the link to the AoR form;
• how to record the results, the deadline for submitting the results and the link to the RDS.