Strengthening Quality of Tuberculosis Laboratories Toward Accreditation in Viet Nam

Am J Clin Pathol. 2019 Nov 4;152(6):808-817. doi: 10.1093/ajcp/aqz104.

Abstract

Objectives: Early diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) and multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) is a priority for Viet Nam's National TB Control Programme. In many laboratories, quality systems are weak; few have attained accreditation. We implemented a structured training and mentoring program for TB laboratories and measured impact on quality.

Methods: Six TB culture laboratories implemented the Strengthening TB Laboratory Management Towards Accreditation (TB SLMTA) program, consisting of three training workshops and on-site mentoring between workshops to support improvement projects. Periodic audits, using standardized checklists, monitored laboratories' progress toward accreditation readiness.

Results: At baseline, all six laboratories achieved a zero-star level. At exit, five laboratories attained three stars and another one star. Overall checklist scores increased by 44.2% on average, from 29.8% to 74.0%; improvements occurred across all quality system essentials.

Conclusions: The program led to improved quality systems. Sites should be monitored to ensure sustainability of improvements and country capacity expanded for national scaleup.

Keywords: Accreditation; Diagnostics; Laboratory strengthening; Quality management systems; Tuberculosis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Accreditation* / methods
  • Accreditation* / standards
  • Humans
  • Laboratories / standards*
  • Quality Control
  • Quality Improvement* / standards
  • Tuberculosis / diagnosis*
  • Vietnam