LAUNCH AND DISSEMINATION OF STRATEGIC DOCUMENTS

Uganda National Health Laboratory Services (UNHLS) under Ministry of Health launched and disseminated strategic documents during the commemoration of monthly Laboratory Day

1. The National Laboratory Policy II

2. The National Action Plan for Antimicrobial Resistance

3. The Guidelines for Hub and sample transport

4. National Laboratory test menu

5. Point of Care (POC) guidelines, and  

6. National Biosafety Biosecurity audit report

Minister for Health, Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng noted that lab services play a critical role in disease and outbreak prevention. "They also help doctors choose effective medicines to cure illnesses thereby avoiding unnecessary drug wastage" she said.

As Dr. Aceng launched a number of strategic documents, she urged health workers to prescribe antibiotics ONLY if there's evidence for use.

"Patients, please take your medicines and adhere to the treatment plan as prescribed by the health worker"she stressed.

Permanent Secretary, Dr. Diana Atwine stressed the importance of periodic review and continuous medical education for improvement of Lab and diagnostic services.

Dr. Christina Mwangi, CDC appreciated the launch of these strategic documents as a 'milestone' towards improved service delivery in Uganda. "I would like to pledge our continued support and commitment towards better health outcomes for all people in Uganda" she committed.

Ministry of Health appreciates WHO, World Bank, US Government, Global Fund, UNICEF and other partners for supporting laboratory services in Uganda.