Quality Cross Check Program for ACT testing (HMS Plus and ACT Plus)

I have both of these instruments and use the CT1Q survey for quality cross check every 6 months. 

I tried it early on but found it not useful for me. I received total of 6 vials (2 of each level). The result range was not what I was expecting. Since I'm in charge of ordering controls for ACTs for both the HMS and ACT Plus, I order enough to last 4-5 months and use controls as a 6-month comparison as all are on the same lot number. 

How many samples do you all use for the instrument correlation process every 6-months?  I'm not sure if I could use control materials since there are 2 different testing platforms.  Both the ACT Plus and the HMS Plus use the same controls, however the cartridges are different and therefore the lot numbers would be different for those.  We are CAP accredited and it looks like if the control and reagents are of the same manufacturer and lot number controls can be used for comparisons.  However, I think with the 2 different cartridges (although both HR-ACT) I wouldn't be able to use QC to satisfy this standard.  

Can anyone who uses the CT1Q program tell me how long after you receive the samples do you have to submit results?  Is it a week, 2 weeks or a different time frame?  I'm just trying to see if it would give us a large enough window to get the testing performed on the 3 of our instruments. thanks!

Ashlee, the deadlines for submission can be found on the CAP website. The give ample time to complete the testing and submit results, it's usually at least two weeks.