Relevant Base-Line Data as Necessary Precursors for QIPS in Developing Countries

It was therefore considered pertinent to collate relevant base-line data from clinical laboratories in Africa in key areas like, quality assurance, appropriate technology, essential manpower, and instrument repair and maintenance, inorder to highlight areas that might require structured international intervention and assistance. This was especially germaine, as most clinical laboratories in developing countries were new comers to Quality Assurance or good laboratory practice. Additionally, it was noted that some previous attempts by international donor agencies to assist clinical laboratories in developing countries were largely unenduring because the assessment of needs were based mostly on Western values and expectations. Ten years ago, a survey was conducted by questionnaire distributed to several clinical laboratories in Africa (South of Sahara) inorder to obtain the desired base-line data. The present survey represents a 10-year follow-up designed to