Evaluation of proficiency and ongoing competency assessment practices for medical laboratory technicians performing diabetes diagnostic tests in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Medical laboratory technicians (MLTs) performing diabetes testing require ongoing competency assessment to ensure quality results, but optimal practices remain unclear in Saudi Arabia. This mixed methods study evaluated current proficiency testing and competency evaluation approaches for MLTs performing glucose and HbA1c analysis at five hospitals in Riyadh. Quantitative data assessed competency assessment frequencies, methods, and failure rates. Qualitative interviews with 20 MLTs and 5 lab managers explored perspectives on competency evaluation practices. Only 38% of 104 MLTs completed any formal competency evaluation in the past year, with most utilizing only written testing. Up to 12% of MLTs failed one or more elements when assessments were conducted. Interviews highlighted inconsistencies in competency evaluation frequency, format, and performance feedback. Key challenges included lack of standardized requirements, training resources, and poor integration with workflow. Study results indicate suboptimal, inconsistent competency evaluation practices for MLTs performing diabetes testing. Saudi healthcare organizations must prioritize formalized competency assessment policies, provide resources for implementation, integrate competency data with training programs, and standardize requirements nationally for MLTs in diabetes care. This study provides guidance on strengthening competency frameworks to ensure patient safety and quality.