CamLab Network

A collaborative effort between the Cambodian Ministry of Health, WHO and the US CDC resulted in an IHR laboratory assessment of 29 laboratories conducted between October 2013 and April 2014. The mission was to assess national laboratory capacities, and support the government in developing a plan of action for laboratory improvement to meet the IHR core requirements by the extended deadline of June 2016.

These same partners will co-host a workshop on 3rd- 5th September, 2014, to highlight and share the overall results of the assessment and discuss the identified unmet country needs, and approaches to implementation, including the development of human resources. This workshop is geared to accelerating the implementation of laboratory core capacities as they apply to the International Health Regulations (2005). The workshop will endeavor to integrate assessment recommendations into the National Strategic Plan, and ensure utilization of current resources to their fullest.

The workshop will include regional government officials, Hospital Directors and Laboratory Managers from the assessed laboratories, representatives from donor organizations with interests in strengthening of national laboratories, and other stakeholders. The meeting will contribute to a growing dialogue on operational aspects of laboratory capacity strengthening in Cambodia.

Meeting Objectives

• Provide a forum for all stakeholders – Ministry of Health, hospital personnel, technical partners, and donors – to review the current laboratory assessment data and recognize the main achievements, identify gaps and challenges, and prioritize work plan development.

• Provide the opportunity for all stakeholders to integrate recommendations to address the challenges identified into the new National Strategy for Medical laboratory Services (2015-2019).

• Set the stage for further discussions on future strategies for collaboration, and partnership and the mobilization of technical and financial resources required to meet core capacities.

• Endeavour to match identified needs, gaps, and priorities to available support and identify next steps in IHR core capacity development and National Strategic Plan development.