Strengthening National Lab Leadership and Governance
Summary: Partnered with a country’s health ministry to re-establish a central laboratory directorate, align national policies, and build a high-functioning Laboratory Technical Working Group (LTWG). By mapping stakeholders and designing new governance structures, Diag-Net enabled evidence-based decision-making and continuous quality oversight across the lab network.
Background:
In a country with fragmented lab oversight, Diag-Net collaborated with the Ministry of Health to revitalize national laboratory leadership. We conducted a comprehensive stakeholder inventory to identify all public and private lab actors. Engaging senior government officials, Diag-Net advocated for a permanent Directorate of Laboratory Services to provide unified oversight[1].
Background:
In a country with fragmented lab oversight, Diag-Net collaborated with the Ministry of Health to revitalize national laboratory leadership. We conducted a comprehensive stakeholder inventory to identify all public and private lab actors. Engaging senior government officials, Diag-Net advocated for a permanent Directorate of Laboratory Services to provide unified oversight[1].
Approach:
- Governance Design: Proposed and validated a new laboratory organogram and reporting lines, consolidating previously siloed units under the directorate.
- Policy Alignment: Assisted in drafting national lab policies and an Essential Diagnostics List to guide test prioritization.
- TWG Formation: Established and launched a Laboratory Technical Working Group (LTWG ) with terms of reference and KPI tracking.
- Capacity Building: Trained lab managers on data-driven decision-making and management practices.
Outcomes:
The ministry officially adopted the new laboratory directorate and governance framework. The LTWG, now meeting regularly, has improved coordination among provinces. By providing evidence of cost efficiencies and health impact, Diag-Net’s work gained strong government buy-in. Improved leadership and policy alignment led to more efficient use of donor funds and clearer accountability for lab performance.