Development of National Laboratory Policy and Strategic Plans

Strong laboratories cannot exist without strong support systems. Delivering high-quality services requires qualified personnel, reliable supply chains, well-maintained and calibrated equipment, and safe, functional facilities - consistently, not just occasionally.

Sustainable quality depends on systems that work every day.

National governments are at the foundation of laboratory strengthening

Effective laboratory systems require strong national leadership and governance. Clear legislation and regulatory frameworks are essential to ensure efficient procurement and supply chains, high-quality education and training of personnel, proper equipment maintenance and calibration, and adherence to standards.

Without a solid policy foundation, sustainable improvement is not possible.

Supporting national laboratory policy and planning

DATOS supports national governments in developing National Laboratory Policies and Strategic Plans within a One Health framework.

We use a structured, consensus-based process that begins with the establishment of a National Laboratory Working Group. This group brings together representatives from all relevant stakeholders, including ministries of health and education, the human and veterinary laboratory sectors, and the private laboratory sector, among others.

A phased and structured approach

Through a phased approach, DATOS guides National Laboratory Working Groups in developing comprehensive National Laboratory Policies based on a standardized methodology originally developed for WHO Europe.

Because every country has its own strengths, opportunities, and constraints, each policy is tailored to the national context. To ensure effective implementation after endorsement, we also facilitate the development of accompanying Strategic Plans.

Countries we have supported

Our experts have guided National Laboratory Working Groups in Oman, Nepal, Mongolia, Pakistan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Sudan in the development of National Laboratory Policies and Strategic Plans.

Advancing quality: The National Laboratory Quality Framework

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the global importance of high-quality laboratory services. At the request of the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM), DATOS applied its extensive policy development expertise to develop guidance for countries on establishing a National Laboratory Quality Framework.

This framework supports countries in strengthening and updating national policies and facilitates the implementation of laboratory quality management systems. The guidance was launched by the African Union and Africa CDC in November 2021 and is available through Africa CDC.

Get in touch

Do you have questions about our work or would you like more information? We would be pleased to hear from you.