Microsoft Word 02Preface doc

1)
 
Introducing EQA for TB Testing to the Public TB Microscopy Centres   
The NTP established a quality assurance system in TB microscopy in cooperation with 
JICA.    The framework of the QA system is shown on Figure 4.5. 

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Figure 4.5    QA Framework for TB Microscopy Diagnosis in Ghana 
 
 
 
Source:  National Tuberculosis Control Programme (2001), Tuberculosis Microscopy: a Laboratory Manual for 
Ghana  
 
Intermediate laboratories periodically collect slides from peripheral laboratories for 
evaluation, then feed back the results to the peripheral laboratories.  The NMIMR 
dispatches staff to the intermediate laboratories once a year for QA in both the 
intermediate and peripheral laboratories.  Regarding the private sector, microscopy 
centres in Accra and Kumasi were covered by the QA system, and the NMIMR and the 
NTP plans to expand this to nationwide coverage.     
The NMIMR is responsible for following items as a national reference laboratory on 
TB. 
 
¾
 
All the functions of an intermediate laboratory. 
¾
 
Updating and distribution of protocols for TB microscopy. 
¾
 
Development and distribution of guidelines on TB supporting visits and QA. 
¾
 
Collaboration with the NTP in making technical recommendations for the purchase 
of equipment, reagents and other laboratory supplies. 
¾
 
Training of regional laboratory staff in smear techniques, QA, biosafety measures 
and the maintenance of equipment. 
 
As shown on Table 4.11, the NMIMR held two training courses, namely, training on 
TB microscopy and training on quality assurance in TB microscopy, to introduce the 
EQA system into public microscopy centers.     
 
National TB Reference Laboratory