24 hours in the life of a ... District Medical Laboratory Coordinator in Zambia
In this guest blog post, Bright Kondwani Kamanga discusses his everyday life in the lab, the challenges faced, and the role of technology in overcoming those hurdles
18 Oct 2024
Bright Kondwani Kamanga, District Medical Laboratory Coordinator
In this guest blog post, submitted as part of the global #CLINICAL24 conversation, Bright Kondwani Kamanga, from Zambia, shares his insights and experiences as a District Medical Laboratory Coordinator at the Ministry of Health. Discover his role in clinical laboratory science and the impact of his work on healthcare education and career development.
About my job as a District Medical Laboratory Coordinator
As a District Medical Laboratory Coordinator for the Ministry of Health, I oversee the operations of multiple laboratories within my district. My responsibilities include ensuring the quality and efficiency of laboratory services, managing laboratory staff, coordinating with healthcare providers, and maintaining laboratory resources. I also play a crucial role in promoting laboratory best practices and contributing to the overall health program in my district.
A typical day for me as a District Medical Laboratory Coordinator
A typical day for me involves a mix of administrative tasks, technical supervision, and strategic planning. I start by reviewing laboratory reports and ensuring data accuracy. I then meet with laboratory staff to discuss any issues or challenges they may be facing. I also coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure timely and appropriate laboratory testing. Additionally, I may participate in meetings with district health officials to discuss laboratory needs and priorities.
Biggest challenges as a District Medical Laboratory Coordinator
Some of the biggest challenges I face in my daily routine include:
- Limited resources: Insufficient funding and equipment can hinder the quality and efficiency of laboratory services.
- Staff shortages: A lack of qualified laboratory personnel can impact the workload and accuracy of laboratory results. In my facility, two personnel are currently upgrading their skills, so at times, I find myself doing both bench work and administrative tasks.
- Infrastructure challenges: Inadequate laboratory facilities and unreliable power supply can disrupt operations. Our district laboratory lacks enough space to store commodities or expand our microbiology department.
- Data management: Collecting, analyzing, and reporting laboratory data can be time-consuming and prone to errors, especially with staff shortages.
How technology supports my work
Technology plays a significant role in overcoming many of the challenges I face. Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), for example, help streamline data management and improve efficiency. Point-of-care testing devices allow for rapid diagnosis and treatment, especially in remote areas. Additionally, online training platforms offer opportunities for staff development and continuous learning. In our district laboratory, we have a point-of-care system in place and recently implemented a DISA system for sample registration, tracking, and improving workflow efficiency.