SWOT Analysis reveals shortage of laboratory Personnel In Sierra Leone

According to the National Laboratory Capacity and Systems report, SWOT analysis revealed that there is a shortage of qualified laboratory personnel in the country.
In a presentation from the report, the Director of Hospital and Laboratory Services in the country, Dr Matt Lebby informed ministry officials and health development partners of the strengths and weaknesses in laboratory services nationwide, from the SWOT analysis.
On weaknesses, he noted that there is an acute shortage of qualified laboratory personnel and the quantity of trained personnel is insufficient to meet the country’s clinical diagnostic testing needs.
Dr Lebby added that the graduates from the courses offered by existing Sierra Leonean training Institutions and standards achieved are not sufficient to meet the country’s need for skilled laboratory staff.
He said in the absence of a scheme of service, professional titles given to laboratory staff often do not reflect skills and education levels, or staff responsibilities in the laboratory.
In addition, the Director of Hospital and Laboratory Services explained that there are no systems for CPD or progression of career and remuneration, which he stressed negatively impact staff motivation.
Also, pointing to the weak laboratory infrastructure, power and water supply, waste disposal facilities, Dr Matt Lebby noted that most laboratory workspace is often too small or not designed to serve laboratory purposes.
The issue of laboratory regulatory processes and standardisation is another challenge, including the absence of laboratory Information Management Systems, which shows there is a need for an authoritative body that sets minimum standards and regulates laboratories, he maintained.
By Ade Campbell
Tuesday April 12, 2016

follow on: http://awoko.org/2016/04/12/sierra-leone-news-swot-analysis-reveals-shortage-of-laboratory-personnel/