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District level external quality assurance (EQA) of malaria microscopy in Pakistan: pilot implementation and feasibility.

Abstract：

BACKGROUND:Prompt, quality assured laboratory diagnosis is key to effective malaria case management and control, especially since the introduction of the more expensive artemisinin combination therapy (ACT). The malaria programme and its non-government partners, on the basis of WHO recommended Lot Quality Assurance methods, have developed a district level external quality assurance (EQA) system. This study was designed to assess the feasibility, under programme conditions, of an integrated district level external quality assurance and supervision approach for malaria microscopy. DESIGN AND METHODS:A prospective study conducted over seven months period (May-November 2007). In addition to the standard WHO EQA elements, three operational innovations were introduced, with the a district laboratory supervisor: a) on site re-checking of slides, b) in ensuring uninterrupted availability of laboratory reagents and supplies at diagnostic centers, and c) supervision of administrative and technical components. The quantitative data for the study came from the service records/documents, whereas the qualitative data came from the key informant interviews. RESULTS:During the seven month period in four districts, a total of 8,118 slides were examined of which 209 (2.6%) were found positive for malaria parasites (slide positivity range between 1.6% to 6.0%). The District Laboratory Supervisors in four districts reexamined a total of 1,770 slides (22%). The proportion of slides found discordant ranged from 0.5% to 1%. The quality of smear preparation was found acceptable in 73% slides. CONCLUSIONS:A district-based EQA, based on lot quality assurance methods was implemented, using context-specific operational guidelines, tools and training modules, and other inputs from the malaria control programme and partners. This EQA and supervision approach was found to be feasible and acceptable to those involved. Further study is required on the microscopy quality and cost-effectiveness of adding external quality assurance and supervision to district malaria microscopy services.

journal_name

Malar J

journal_title

Malaria journal

authors

Khan MA,Walley JD,Munir MA,Khan MA,Khokar NG,Tahir Z,Nazir A,Shams N

doi

10.1186/1475-2875-10-45

subject

Has Abstract

pub_date

2011-02-17 00:00:00

pages

issn

1475-2875

pii

1475-2875-10-45

journal_volume

pub_type

杂志文章

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District level external quality assurance (EQA) of malaria microscopy in Pakistan: pilot implementation and feasibility.