Navigating laboratory services quality in challenging environments: A perspective for implementation in small, low-income countries and post-conflict settings.

Edward M Kamau

doi:10.4102/ajlm.v2i1.48

Abstract

The need to establish and maintain good laboratory practices is recognised universally. However, due to differences in resources available for health services in different countries, allocation of financial and human resources in poor countries is severely constrained. The constraints faced by poor countries call for innovative approaches that would guarantee the minimum acceptable quality while striving to meet the highest standards. In resource-limited setting, it may be justifiable to develop and use ‘fit for purpose’ quality standards based on internationally-recognised laboratory quality management frameworks or protocols.

Highlights

BackgroundUnder ideal conditions, medical practitioners rely on the use of quality laboratory data for evidence-based medical decision-making
The existence of laboratory infrastructure is a prerequisite for the generation of specific laboratory parameters, quality outcomes result from adherence to national laws and guidelines; and appropriate leadership and management are critical
Based on information gathered from questionnaires or country-specific national laboratory services reports submitted by disease control units, and at the invitation of the Ministries of Health (MoH), stakeholders in laboratory services could initiate an assessment of laboratories by holding a meeting to review the country’s laboratory diagnosis action plan or developing such a plan for quality system implementation.[5]

Summary

Background

Medical practitioners rely on the use of quality laboratory data for evidence-based medical decision-making. Based on information gathered from questionnaires or country-specific national laboratory services reports submitted by disease control units, and at the invitation of the Ministries of Health (MoH), stakeholders in laboratory services could initiate an assessment of laboratories by holding a meeting to review the country’s laboratory diagnosis action plan (if any is available) or developing such a plan for quality system implementation.[5] This first step in implementing support for a quality laboratory system ensures a commitment on the part of the MoH toward strengthening laboratory capacity This commitment is essential for effective and relevant change and to begin the process of addressing organisational structures that will contribute to the laboratory’s ability to provide quality services. It is worth noting that a laboratory service system is only as strong as its weakest link and identifying the link(s) where there is potential for maximum impact of limited resources is not always straightforward

Conclusion

Competing interest