QMS training for veterinary sector in Lao PDR

In March 2021 the IQLS conducted an online assessment of the veterinary laboratory system and identified the need to reinforce the Quality Management System.  As as result of the assessment Dr. Arsen Zakaryan and Mrs. Vivian Fensham provided a basic (level 1) QMS training for the veterinary sector in Lao PDR.

The aim of the training was to improve the participants’ knowledge, skills, and abilities which are essential to implementing a QMS in the laboratory. Following the training there was a marked increase in knowledge from the pre- and post-test scores with a performance increase of more than 20%.

The 13 lab technicians that participated in the training where from the National Animal Health Laboratory (NAHL), and the provincial veterinary laboratories of Savannakhet, Louangprabang, Louangnamtha and Champasak. The participation of veterinarians from the provinces is critical to setting up a veterinary system of laboratories to conduct in real time the surveillance of animal diseases and particularly potential emerging diseases.

The assessment evaluated the organization of the buildings, the basics of QA, documents (procedures, SOPs, etc.), staff management, IQC and standard norms and audits.

The translation of the presentations into Lao and simultaneous translation during the discussions helped to promote a proactive participation and demonstrated the benefit of delivering a face-to-face training for improving knowledge and developing skills.

The IQLS experts have developed two specific 6-months plans of action to strengthen veterinary laboratory QMS in Lao PDR at NAHL and provincial level. The action plan for NAHL include the development of the lab policies, strategic plan, standard norms guidelines, SOPs and documents for quality control and analyticals. For provincial labs, the IQLS support will focus on positions and job descriptions, management of documents, management of equipment and reagents, document control and competency evaluation procedures.

The completion of the action plans with regular support of the IQLS should ensure the implementation of laboratory QMS at NAHL and initiate the process at provincial level.