This information
collection is approved for use until 9/30/92. OMB remains concerned
about the extent to which samples are tested under normal working
conditions in the labs. It is OMB's understanding that CDC is pilot
testing a system for conducting blind evaluations. If th package is
submitted again for approval, CDC must provide an update of efforts
to use blind procedures to assess lab performance. As part of this
effort, CDC should explore whether clinics, hospitals or other
facilities that provide labs with specimens would be willing to
cooperate in the conduct of blind testing. CDC also should explore
the degree to which labs are willing to provide more detailed
information about personnel and testing practices associated with
the analysis of samples. In addition, CDC will need to justify in
the future the need to continue to conduct this performance
evaluation on an annual basis beyond 1992, if most labs
participating are performing 'accurate' tests.
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
09/30/1992
09/30/1992
1,603
0
0
1,603
0
0
0
0
0
THE CDC NEEDS INFORMATION DESCRIBING
THE TESTING PRACTICES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF LABORATORIES THAT ARE
PERFORMING OR PLAN TO PERFORM TESTINF FOR THE HUMAN
IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (HIV) THAT CAUSES AIDS. THE INFORMATION WILL
BE USED TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF HIV TESTING. RESPONDENTS WILL
INCLUDE HOSPITALS, HEALTH DEPARTMENTS, BLOOD BANKS, A PRIVATE
LABORATORIES.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.