The group was formed in March 2006 at the Annual AMMI Canada – CACMID Meeting with the following goals:

Develop an integrated national network of clinical microbiology laboratory experts to support     molecular diagnostics by collaboration and communication through discussion groups and an     annual fall meeting.
Make recommendations, set guidelines and develop proficiency and policy regarding molecular     microbiology testing.
Develop processes for sharing methods, specimens, data and information.


Benefits envisioned by NMG include:

Clinical molecular diagnostics method development, method troubleshooting, and method     discussion and evaluation.
Reduced duplication of effort.
Enhanced support for laboratories through enhanced collaboration.
Enhanced connectivity through collaboration.
Progress for standardization and proficiency in clinical molecular diagnostics.
Collaborative efforts to establish a proficiency program.
Assist each other with validation (specimens and expert advice).
Advise on standardization of quality control in Quality assurance programs for molecular     diagnostics.

Develop an integrated national network of clinical microbiology laboratory experts to support     molecular diagnostics using collaboration and communication.
Make recommendations and collaborate with groups setting standards and developing proficiency     and policy.
Develop processes for sharing methods, specimens, data and information.

Develop tools for method development in the area of clinical molecular diagnostics, for example,     proficiency testing or exchange of proficiency specimens.
Utilize web-board communication to develop a forum for discussion of testing-related issues,     projects, validation, and research.
Assist in coordination of molecular testing capabilities for clinical microbiology laboratories     through education and expert advice.
Identify, prioritize and assist in obtaining funding for projects related to clinical molecular     diagnostics.

Provide an expert advisory committee for government and groups setting standards, providing     expert advice on molecular diagnostics for clinical microbiology.
The NMG shall respect the mandates and roles of all partners and work together in a way that will     enhance their efforts.
The NMG will collaborate and liaise with industry to discuss current methodology and the     development of new assays, although industry will not be members of the NMG.
By clearly understanding the roles and mandates of various organizations involved in clinical     molecular diagnostics, the NMG will facilitate coordination of existing clinical microbiology     laboratories.