Standardised instrument for TB laboratory networks assessment

Overview

Diagnosis and treatment monitoring by sputum smear microscopy are key components of the DOTS strategy. As DOTS is expanded to cover increasing portions of the population TB laboratory networks must be reinforced to meet these needs and with the ability to provide high quality and reliable laboratory services.

This document covers the minimum required information for a useful laboratory assessment. Depending on the specific circumstances in the country under assessment, additional data may be collected. This tool recommends the assessment focus on the following areas.

1.  Structural, functional and policy profile of the TB laboratory network
2. Quality assurance programme
3. Laboratory performance analysis
4. Human resource development
5. Procurement of laboratory equipment and supplies
6.  Safety measures and practices
7. Data management

This tool has been designed to gather a large amount of information, some of which may be difficult or impossible to obtain in certain settings. However, recommendations derived from biased or fragmentary information are often ineffective, not useful to improve the situation and even may be counterproductive. In this regard, this document should not be reduced, or used to focus on certain limited issues. A determined effort should be made to obtain the maximum available information, even if it concerns only a part of the country