Laboratory capacity building

Timely and accurate diagnosis can play a crucial role in disease control. However, in many parts of the world diagnostic facilities are  either not available or the quality or speed of the services provided are below standards. Another problem is that the embedding of the diagnostic services in the general health system is unclear and that medical doctors do not know what tests are available or have problems interpreting test results.

Approach

KIT Biomedical Research staff can provide advice and assistance, using a participatory approach, in setting up or improving diagnostic facilities ranging from basic laboratories to national reference centers. We can also provide assistance in technical and/or management training of staff and in designing systems for better data management and analysis. KIT also organizes a course non quality managment with the ultimate aim to help laboratories in the process of certfication and accreditation.

Focal points

  • Infectious diseases
  • Quality systems
  • Laboratory design (both technical and managerial)
  • Human resource management

Example

The Public Health Laboratory in Paramaribo, Surinam
At the request of the Surinam Ministry of Planning and Developmental Cooperation, KIT staff assessed the  capacity of the central Public Health Laboratory. Based on the findings a detailed plan was written concerning the upgrading of the laboratory with an outline of new facilities and new equipment that needed to be purchased (including a budget). Advice was also given on re-arranging the organizational structure to facilitate the management of the laboratory, on how to ensure a sustainable flow of funds and on training needs for staff.

The National TB Reference Laboratory in Kampala, Uganda
As part of the TB-CAP programme, KIT Biomedical Research in involved in helping the National TB Reference Laboratory with implementing a quality management system with the ultimate aim to be internally accredited.

Team members


Contact

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Paul Klatser or Dr. Linda Oskam

Tags

capacity building | disease control | diagnostics | organizational development | health systems | quality assurance | institutional development


Royal Tropical Institute