Laboratory at District Hospital of Bonassama in Douala, Cameroon

This spotlight was hosted by Njikeu Kouamen Olive Nathalie, Medical Biologist

Can you introduce us to your lab and it’s team?

A: Certainly! The District Hospital Laboratory comprises 25 dedicated individuals, including myself as a medical biologist, two pharmacists primarily responsible for reagent ordering and stock management, and a team of medico-sanitary engineers, technicians, and assistant medico-sanitary technicians. Dr. Ngo Nouck Vanessa, one of our pharmacists, leads the lab.

What role does your lab play within the healthcare system?

A: Situated in a public hospital, our lab serves as a crucial healthcare hub for the community. The hospital receives an average of 1,500 patients per month or a little more. We conduct an average of 1300 to 1400 tests per month, covering essential areas such as hematology, serology, biochemistry, parasitology, bacteriology, and PCR for HIV diagnosis.

What are some accomplishments your lab is proud of?

A: In my one year here, we've achieved significant milestones. We've strengthened internal quality control by training staff on its importance, establishing target values for internal quality control in our lab, and monitoring technician performance closely. Additionally, we've improved the pre-analytical phase through comprehensive training in sampling, drafting of a sampling manual, and reinforcement of sample traceability from collection to analysis. Furthermore, we've enhanced the blood qualification system and streamlined the delivery of blood products to the blood bank. We are pleased to be involved in local external quality assessment programs for the microscopic diagnosis of malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis, as well as with Pathologists Overseas. Our participation in this program has been instrumental in helping us identify and address issues as effectively as possible.

What challenges does your lab face?

A: Additionally, we face several challenges, including having outdated or broken equipment. Although we do not currently have reagent shortages, our hierarchy frequently changes suppliers, leading to inconsistent brands, which poses challenges for us. Like any institution, we face our share of challenges. Staff retraining, occasional reagent shortages, and outdated equipment are among our main hurdles.

What are your future plans for the lab?

A: Our future plans are ambitious yet achievable. Firstly, we aim to get our staff more involved in drafting operating procedures and encourage them to take a greater interest in quality management. This initiative will not only enhance our operational efficiency but also foster a culture of continuous improvement within the lab.

Secondly, we are determined to obtain certification or, at best, accreditation for the laboratory. We are currently working diligently with a local organization to meet the necessary standards for accreditation, particularly focusing on the biological diagnosis of HIV.

Lastly, we aspire to engage in research projects within the laboratory and collaborate with external partners for research endeavors both within and outside the hospital. By conducting research, we aim to contribute valuable insights to the scientific community while further advancing healthcare delivery for our patients.