OUR ORGANIZATION

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.