The College of American Pathologists will continue to pursue a legislative solution to the "flawed" CLIA cytology proficiency testing program currently enforced by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. CAP says the program, which operates under 1992 rules, is outdated and out of touch with changes in cytology practice. Late last year, bills championed by CAP to overhaul the program were introduced in the House and the Senate (H.R. 6133, S. 4056). In 2005, CAP also backed a House-passed bill that called on CMS to suspend the current program and implement specific changes.

Meantime, CMS has announced that a proposed revision of the cytology PT rules won’t be available until July. A federal advisory panel, CLIAC, last June recommended revisions, including scoring and frequency of testing.

For 2007, pathologists and cytotechnologists continue to be subject to testing requirements under the current rules.