VetCLIN AMR Free Proficiency Testing Scheme
Proficiency testing facilitates harmonisation of laboratory methodologies and strengthens antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance.
As part of the VetCLIN AMR project, we are offering two separate free proficiency testing schemes for bacterial identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of isolates from animal clinical specimens, comprising an independent companion animal scheme and an equine scheme.
Proficiency testing is an essential tool for improving the quality, accuracy, and comparability of laboratory results. It provides laboratories with an opportunity to review and refine internal methodologies while supporting the generation of harmonised antimicrobial susceptibility data. These efforts contribute directly to national and international AMR surveillance initiatives.
The VetCLIN AMR free proficiency testing scheme was first launched in 2025 and is now open to all laboratories processing companion animal clinical and/or equine samples for bacterial culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
Participating laboratories will receive:
- Personalised feedback reports
- Guidance from experienced veterinary microbiology specialists
- Support in harmonisation of laboratory methodologies
Example output to participating laboratories:
The VetCLIN AMR Proficiency Testing Scheme evaluates antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) performance on bacterial isolates clinically relevant for each species, through assessment of individual laboratory submissions, providing participants with bespoke feedback to support continuous quality improvement. In addition, the scheme includes benchmarking tools that enable anonymised interlaboratory comparisons, allowing laboratories to assess performance against the wider participant cohort while maintaining confidentiality.
The figure below presents an example output from a Clinical Scenario involving a Gram-negative isolate, showing AST read results summarised as the percentage of conforming and non-conforming outcomes across participating laboratories. All results are fully anonymised. This example demonstrates how aggregated data are used to support benchmarking, identify variation in testing performance, and promote harmonisation of AST practices.
Programme timeline:
- Second companion animal (dogs and cats) round: starts early April 2026
- First equine round: starts late April / early May 2026
These schemes will run for several weeks, giving laboratories flexibility to complete the testing at a time that suits them. These schemes are planned to run on an annual basis.
Who to contact:
Professor Dorina Timofte or Dr April Lawson
We look forward to welcoming new laboratories to the VetCLIN AMR proficiency testing programme and supporting continued improvement in veterinary diagnostic microbiology and AMR surveillance.
