Maryland's cytology labs: 1989-90 proficiency testing results.

In 1990, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene provided proficiency-testing to seventy-three cytology laboratories, and 293 technical employees. Sixty-three of these labs, 132 of 154 pathologists, and 130 of 139 cytotechnologists passed without having to undergo retesting or retraining. Failing laboratories accounted for approximately 2 percent of the cervicovaginal slides diagnosed in 1989. Labs with the lowest passing rates were small ones operated by single pathologists not employing cytotechnologists. Eight pathologists either surrendered their state permit or were required to obtain additional training; no cytotechnologist required additional training.