Bududa: Excitement engulfed the health workers, leaders, and the general public after Bududa Hospital Medical Laboratory achieved international accreditation from the esteemed South African National Accreditation System (SANAS).

This accreditation, awarded under the International ISO 15189:2022 standard, marks a significant achievement as a laboratory in a rural setting has garnered such prestigious recognition internationally.

Bududa hospital serves a population of close to 300,000 people from the districts of Bududa and the neighboring districts of Manafwa, Namisindwa, among others.

This also demonstrates technical competency for the defined scope and operation of a quality management system for the people who seek medical tests from the laboratory.

Stakeholders say it is a groundbreaking development for Bududa’s health sector.

Dr. Sylivia Ntegeka, the superintendent for Bududa hospital, highlighted the significance of accreditation in bolstering confidence in laboratory services and fostering domestic and international partnerships saying the results acquired from Bududa shall now be internationally recognized. She said these standards ensure the laboratory's competence in performing specific tests and maintaining a quality management system.

Ntegeka emphasized the invaluable impact of accreditation on the local population, saying this is a remarkable milestone intended to demonstrate a concrete and undeniable service.

She disclosed that the laboratory has secured accreditation for Haematology, immunology, molecular biology, and serology, depending on which diagnosis is being carried out.

Ntegeka articulated the laboratory's strategic vision to broaden its accreditation scope to encompass other prevalent diseases in the region, underscoring a proactive approach to addressing medical health challenges.

Mr. Martin Kiplangat, the Chief Administrative Officer of Bududa, said the accreditation serves as a benchmark for excellence and commitment to maintaining stringent quality standards necessary for accurate and reliable diagnostic services.

“We have standardized and become systematic in the way we do our work,” he said.

"This commitment should not be undertaken lightly but should be pursued toward improving public health and the livelihoods of communities."

He warned health workers not to charge for the services since the government of Uganda offered them free equipment and is paying their salaries.

He said the laboratory should not be the hub of collecting money from the public, saying whoever shall be doing the same shall be dealt with accordingly.

Kiplangat also thanked Baylor Uganda for the support they offered to them towards achieving the milestone, saying it could not go unnoticed.

He said Baylor offered technical and material support, something they are very grateful for.