MLSCN calls for quality accreditation in medical labs

Dr Donald Ofili, Acting Registrar of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN), has called on all medical laboratory facilities to make quality their watchword by embracing the council’s accreditation service.

He said this in a statement issued by Fidelia Ibeh, Head of the Council’s Corporate Affairs Unit in Abuja, emphasising that accreditation would ensure Nigerian laboratories’ test results were accepted across borders.

Ofili highlighted that the theme of World Accreditation Day, celebrated on June 9, focused on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

According to him, the theme, “Empowering Small and Medium Enterprises,” is especially relevant given that many medical laboratories operate as SMEs, whose quality performance is vital for public health.

He noted that SMEs were the backbone of any thriving economy, driving innovation, creating jobs, and significantly contributing to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Ofili described accreditation as a profitable venture that boosted credibility and market access while providing a recognised stamp of quality and competence.

He noted that the international standard ISO 15189:2022 provided medical laboratories with a framework to ensure quality and competence, allowing them to compete fairly alongside larger institutions.

“By meeting this standard, smaller and medium-sized laboratories can demonstrate their reliability and professionalism in delivering accurate and trustworthy test results.

“This recognition opens up new opportunities for partnerships and expands their client base beyond national borders.

“Cross-border acceptance of their services not only boosts their market reach, but also enhances trade competitiveness, helping laboratories integrate into broader healthcare networks globally,” he said.

He added that the advantages facilitated trade competitiveness and support the single continental market envisioned by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“Structures, processes, and the focus on improvement in diagnostic infrastructure inherent in accreditation preparations encourage SME medical laboratories.

“It also encourages public health institution laboratories to adopt new technologies and methodologies, fostering innovation in medical diagnostics.

“This aligns with the agenda of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Pate, aimed at strengthening the healthcare system and improving access to quality healthcare,”Ofili said.

The Acting Registrar assured that MLSCN, through its accreditation service, was ready to support quality improvement and accreditation across medical laboratories in Nigeria.

He stated that the council would offer technical assistance and guidance to laboratories embarking on their accreditation journey.

Ofili also said MLSCN would facilitate capacity building and streamline accreditation processes to foster a culture of quality and advance the accreditation agenda.(https://newsatlarge.ng)