What is the difference between QC and QA?
The key difference between quality control and quality assurance lies in
the purpose and objectives of the two functions. They’re both crucial to
the production and release of different medical products. The aim of
quality control in the pharmaceutical industry is to verify and test the
medicine at various stages of production, to ensure every product is of the
highest quality.
Quality control also involves identifying any defects in products and
fixing these problems with corrective techniques and measures. It’s the
process of inspecting and approving products to ensure they meet the
required customer and regulatory standards. Quality control is an important
part of quality management in a pharmaceutical setting.
On the other hand, quality assurance is the process of making sure quality
requirements have been fulfilled. Quality assurance aims to prevent
mistakes and defects, as well as manage quality through defining processes,
establishing standards and developing guidelines for better quality
management. So, quality assurance is focused on the process while quality
control revolves around the product.
Team vs individual
There’s also a contrast between how quality control is carried out compared
to quality assurance. Quality control is often the responsibility of
certain individuals in a
pharmaceutical organisation
. These duties would be carried out by quality control specialists, who
undertake product testing and process validation. These professionals will
be specialists in troubleshooting errors in medical products and making
sure they comply with legal standards.
Quality assurance, on the other hand, involves an entire team with each
member responsible for QA activities such as documentation, planning,
project auditing and other forms of quality assessment. There’s also the
quality management system, which is normally overseen by the leadership
team.
How to thrive in a pharmaceutical setting
Whether you work in quality control or quality assurance, you’ll still need
to have a clear understanding of how to succeed in a pharmaceutical
setting. Firstly, make the most of any training and development
opportunities that come your way. Many pharmaceutical companies offer their
employees robust training and personal development programmes to ensure
they keep learning and remain engaged in their work.
Also, make sure you’re continuously showing your value. As a QC or QA
professional, you should be overcommunicating about projects and
accomplishments. For example, if there are any medical products you have
successfully fixed, share the results with your manager and wider team.
What is the future of quality control and quality assurance?
The future of quality control and quality assurance in pharmaceuticals is
likely to be dominated by
artificial intelligence, automation
and digitisation.
According to research by McKinsey
, there have been several developments by pharmaceutical and MedTech
companies to improve quality assurance with new digital technologies and
analytical tools. This means quality control specialists and quality
assurance teams will need to adapt to new software and functionalities, as
the pharmaceutical industry becomes increasingly digital. There will always
be a need for quality management, but in the future, it will likely be a
much more streamlined process.
Are you looking for a new role in a pharmaceutical setting?
There’s a wide range of roles in the pharmaceutical industry. If you want
to move your career forward in pharmaceuticals, whether that’s in quality
control or quality assurance, Quanta is here to help! Since 1992, our team
has been providing quality recruitment solutions. We’re determined to help
place our candidates in the best roles. We take the time to understand the
needs of clients and candidates so they always receive the best possible
service. So, if you’re looking to start a new role in GA, get in touch with
our
compliance and quality assurance team
for more information.
