Implementation of an in-service training program to strengthen the quality and capacity of infectious disease diagnosis and surveillance in public health laboratories across the Mekong Delta region

This work aimed to improve laboratory operations and regional biosurveillance and biosecurity through improved laboratory quality assurance and management practices. This approach utilized a cadre of local laboratory quality improvement mentors that provided training in quality management to laboratory personnel. 12 provincial and 4 capital region Referral Hospital laboratories are currently supported in Cambodia and 5 Provincial Referral Hospitals in Lao PDR were supported. The goals of the project was to improve laboratory data quality, utilization, and reporting for patient diagnosis, disease surveillance, program planning, and health policy making as well as improve the utilization of the laboratory by clinicians to improve evidence-based disease diagnosis and surveillance. Dr. Perrone provided project leadership and training in laboratory and quality management to local I-TECH and hospital laboratory staff and worked closely with the Cambodian and Laos PDR MOH’s and other partners such as the WHO, CDC and other locally based NGO’s to meet project goals.