The Ministry of Health in Uganda is concerned about the way laboratory results are being handled. They say that some lab experts are issuing results negligently, which could have serious consequences.
For example, during the recent Ebola outbreak in Mubende, there were cases where results were being thrown around, creating unnecessary fear. The MOH also says that the same is happening now with paternity or DNA testing. They believe that the domestic violence, suicide, and all the controversy around this are partly caused by the fact that results are not well communicated and there is generally a lack of leadership in the lab sector.
To address this problem, the MOH has launched the Uganda Public Health Fellowship Programme – Laboratory Leadership Track. This program will train holders of master’s degrees in laboratory science in leadership and management. The first cohort of six fellows has already been enrolled, and they are currently undergoing field training at various institutions.
The program is funded by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and it is expected to cost $20,000. Dr. Alex Riolexus Ario, the Director of the Uganda National Institute of Public Health, says that the course is very expensive because it is highly practical.
The MOH hopes that this program will help to improve the handling of laboratory results in Uganda. They believe that it will lead to better communication of results, which will in turn help to reduce the fear and anxiety that often surrounds laboratory testing.
The program is also expected to help to develop more effective leaders in the lab sector. This will be important as Uganda continues to face new and emerging health threats.