Laboratories
Clinical laboratories play a pivotal role in health care delivery to ensure early and accurate diagnosis, in monitoring treatment progress, and in determining drug resistance. MSH works with MOHs, national TB and HIV & AIDS programs, NGOs, and other partners to develop laboratory policies, strategies, and procedures that will strengthen laboratory systems and services and improve the management of human resources, laboratory equipment, and commodities. We assist in adapting quality-assurance systems and laboratory standard operating procedures to local contexts, using capacity building packages designed to improve management and leadership practices in laboratory settings.
Sputum microscopy is the cornerstone of diagnosis for the vast majority of TB patients in resource–poor settings. To provide this simple test in a routine program setting, systems need to be in place to ensure appropriate collection, storage, transportation, accurate registration, and quality-controlled examination of specimens. Timely recording and reporting of results to both the health care provider and the patient are essential links to care and treatment.
Sputum microscopy is the cornerstone of diagnosis for the vast majority of TB patients in resource–poor settings. To provide this simple test in a routine program setting, systems need to be in place to ensure appropriate collection, storage, transportation, accurate registration, and quality-controlled examination of specimens. Timely recording and reporting of results to both the health care provider and the patient are essential links to care and treatment.