Laboratory Professionals Member Community

This community is for ASCP laboratory professional members and is aligned with those membership categories.

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  • 1.  As ASCP members, what can we do to maintain quality medical laboratory service in developing countries?

    Posted 07-20-2024 02:06

    How could ASCP assist in maintaining quality laboratory service in developing countries? As ASCP members, what can we do together? 

    Mistire Wolde, BSc-IMLS (ASCPi), MSc, PhD



  • 2.  RE: As ASCP members, what can we do to maintain quality medical laboratory service in developing countries?

    Posted 07-21-2024 03:24
    Edited by Marshall Pallekkankanamge 07-21-2024 07:12

    In developing countries one of the problems is less recognition of laboratory profession.  With that attitude, Governments do not encourage continuous studies for medical laboratory professionals.  The MLTs also feel that, and do not take much interest  for continuous learning, which is the most important part in the profession in quality improvement.  I feel the best way is to encourage Medical Laboratory professionals in developing countries take ASCPi exams.  As ASCP members should earn credits through courses from ASCP, they will always have additional  updated knowledge.   I have my experience in preparing for ASCPi exams, and I know how it can help to improve our theory and practical knowledge and also accuracy of testing. Encouraging ASCP certification in developing world is the best solution for the problem because quality improves with knowledge.



    ------------------------------
    Marshall Pallekkankanamge

    B.App.Sci. MLS (Qld)

    P. Pharm Hons  (OUSL)

    ASCPi -MLS

    Med Lab Scientist/Med Technologist Supervisor
    Nugegoda
    0714206390
    ------------------------------

    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: As ASCP members, what can we do to maintain quality medical laboratory service in developing countries?

    ASCP Ambassador
    Posted 07-22-2024 10:00
    Dear  Pallekkankanamge,  Chege

    First, let me express my sincere appreciation to Dr. Mistre Gebre, the original author of this message. His insights have been valuable in shaping this discussion.

    Next, I would like to address the points from respected professionals Marshall Pallekkankanamge and Mary Chege.  Pallekkankanamge highlighted the importance of ASCP certification and ongoing CME. While we have made efforts to raise awareness and support the path to certification, the challenge lies in the inability of many professionals to afford the associated expenses. Reaching the entire profession with this awareness-raising initiative has proven difficult. On the other hand, Chege provided a compelling approach to implementing and sustaining a LQMS. However, in developing countries, the practice of "Quality" is often perceived as a luxury, and the task of establishing, training, and sustaining this system requires significant financial resources.

    Lastly, it is worth noting that the passion and interest among professionals in developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, are palpable. The primary constraints are the lack of coordination, funding, and experienced Quality Improvement (QI) professionals who can help establish and sustain these critical initiatives.  Then; WHAT CAN WE DO TO OVERCOME THESE FACTORS?                                                                    

    Giorgis Yeabyo (ASCP, HTL)

    www.abiticonsultancy.com

    Addis Ababa, Ethiopia




    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: As ASCP members, what can we do to maintain quality medical laboratory service in developing countries?

    Posted 07-23-2024 10:57
    In under-resourced environments medical laboratory professionals need access to continuous education through refresher courses as does most professions around the world.  A source of that can come from laboratory associations, as we are now seeing a growing number of associations in W. Africa. There's been a positive trend in laboratory associations providing needed guidance and opportunities for continuous growth and updates in quality management.  There are also regional conferences wherein lab professionals share knowledge in quality improvement and the need to ensure quality management systems throughout the clinical and research labs. CelebrateLAB W. Africa is another great example of how regionally we are empowering laboratory professionals to focus on improving their craft and in doing so, improving quality in the laboratory.  Collaborations with organizations like ASCP can only further laboratory systems strengthening. 



    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: As ASCP members, what can we do to maintain quality medical laboratory service in developing countries?

    Posted 07-21-2024 06:39
    Maintaining quality in developing countries can be challenging but achievable with a combination of strategies and best practices. Here are some key approaches:

    1. Training and Education.
       - Regular and comprehensive training for laboratory staff on the latest techniques, protocols, and quality standards.
       - Continuous professional development programs and workshops to keep staff updated.

    2. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
       - Develop and adhere to detailed SOPs for all laboratory processes.
       - Regularly review and update SOPs to reflect current best practices and standards.

    3. Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA)
       - Implement routine QC measures such as internal controls, external quality assessments (EQAs), and proficiency testing.
       - Establish a QA program to monitor and evaluate all aspects of laboratory operations.

    4. Equipment Maintenance and Calibration
       - Regular maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability.
       - Have a plan for timely repair or replacement of faulty equipment.

    5. Accuracy in Record Keeping
       - Maintain meticulous records of all laboratory activities, including test results, QC data, and maintenance logs.
       - Use electronic systems where possible to enhance data management and reduce errors.

    6.Inventory Management
       - Efficiently manage inventory to ensure an adequate supply of reagents and consumables.
       - Implement a tracking system to monitor stock levels and expiration dates.

    7. Biosafety and Biosecurity
       - Ensure proper biosafety protocols are in place to protect staff and prevent contamination.
       - Regularly train staff on biosafety measures and emergency response.

    8. Quality Improvement Initiatives
       - Conduct regular audits and assessments to identify areas for improvement.
       - Implement corrective actions based on audit findings and feedback.

    9. Accreditation and Certification
       - Aim for accreditation from recognized bodies such as ISO 15189 or other relevant standards.
       - Participation in  external quality assessment schemes (EQAS) to benchmark against international standards.

    10. Collaboration and Networking
        - Collaborate with other laboratories, healthcare institutions, and organizations for knowledge exchange and support.
        - laboratory networking 

    11. Use of Technology
        - Utilize laboratory information management systems (LIMS) to streamline operations and improve accuracy.
        - Leverage mobile health (mHealth) technologies to improve communication and data management.



    Original Message