The Role of Standards and Training in Preparing for Accreditation

• Published in: American journal of clinical pathology 2010-09, Vol.134 (3), p.388-392
• Main Authors: WOODCOCK, Sheila, FINE, Glen, MCCLURE, Karen, UNGER, Barbara, RIZZO-PRICE, Patti
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Accreditation; Africa South of the Sahara; Biological and medical sciences; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (U.S.); Clinical Laboratory Techniques - standards; Developing Countries; International Cooperation; Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects); Laboratories - organization & administration; Laboratories - standards; Medical Laboratory Personnel - education; Medical sciences; Pathology. Cytology. Biochemistry. Spectrometry. Miscellaneous investigative techniques; Quality Assurance, Health Care; Quality Control; United States; World Health Organization
• ISSN: 0002-9173; 1943-7722
• DOI: 10.1309/AJCP03TFPBKEYYNT

Laboratory test results are the cornerstone for patient diagnosis and treatment, and the principles of high-quality laboratory testing are the same anywhere in the world. It is one area of health care that can and should be standardized. Resource-limited countries' laboratories lack equipment, proper funding, adequate training for laboratory workers, and systematic management of work, making it difficult to deliver accurate and reliable results. Quality management tools are being used to improve practices, with accreditation being a means to demonstrate that standards are being met. The World Health Organization (WHO), the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute have assumed responsibility for leading a harmonized approach to the provision of education and training in laboratories by publishing a training tool kit. The WHO Regional Office for Africa is leading a new stepwise approach to accreditation.