CIDRZ becomes first medical laboratory to be accredited in Zambia
The Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia (CIDRZ) which is one of the largest health research nongovernmental organizations has become the first medical laboratory to be accredited in the country by the Southern Africa Development Accreditation Services and the 24th in the SADC region.
Speaking in Lusaka during the handover ceremony of the Lab accreditation certificate, SADCAS Chief Executive Officer, Maureen Mutasa says the accreditation of CIDRZ will help strengthen community confidence in the institution.
Ms. Mutasa says the accreditation of the institution will further contribute towards national social and economic development.
She says this is because it is not just about implementing a laboratory management system, but also about policy makers embracing best practices in national development plan.
Ms. Mutasa states that SADCAS will undertake periodic surveillance assessment throughout the validity period of the certificate of accreditation in order for CIRDZ to maintain the accreditation.
She says SADCAS will not hesitate to suspend or withdrawal the certificate if the institution does not maintain accreditation and pay accreditation fees.
Speaking at the same event, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary in-charge of training, Professor Elwyn Chomba said partnership with the private sector in promoting health delivery will help in providing quality health delivery to citizens.
Prof. Chomba says government is not able to deal with all the challenges facing the health sector without the help of the private sector.
And CIDRZ Board Chairperson, Bradford Machila says CIDRZ has gained international reputation by demonstrating excellence through delivery of quality services locally and internationally.
Meanwhile CIDRZ acting Executive Director, Emmanuel Qua-enoo said CIDRZ is committed to ensuring effective and efficient policy direction in order to promote quality health care as a means of facilitating local, regional and international cooperation.