Cost effectiveness of laboratory improvement programs: the viewpoint from the private sector.

The costs of participating in laboratory improvement programs are categorized and presented from the viewpoint of the laboratory. These include: prevention costs, appraisal costs, and compliance costs. Costs of participating in voluntary vs. mandatory programs are compared. Reduction of costs could be achieved by reducing duplication and overlapping of programs. In conclusion, it is difficult to identify the exact costs in any program, but it is estimated that for the individual laboratory it may represent 10-15% of the operating costs.