February 10, 2007	Saturday	Muharram 21, 1428

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 9: Keeping in view the importance of ever increasing technological advancements and competition in the health care sector, the ministry of science and technology launched the accreditation programme of medical laboratories here on Friday.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Pakistan National Accreditation Council (PNAC) and the College of Pathologists Pakistan (CPP) in this regard.

Under the plan, accreditation of medical labs would not only enhance their credibility but the public would also benefit from the correct result of clinical tests.

As a step to achieve the above goal, the accreditation of medical labs in accordance with the international standard of medical labs could contribute immensely towards the improvement of health care delivery system in Pakistan.

According to the MoU the two organizations would also coordinate and jointly organize trainings, seminars and courses and workshops and get benefit from the expertise of each other.

Terming the accreditation of labs a step towards national prosperity, Secretary Science and Technology Parvez Butt said: “Everything we do has to be of highest quality and this is what accreditation is all about.”

Mr Butt, who was the chief guest on the occasion, said that Pakistan needed to import not just products but also technology. He hoped that the programme would contribute towards higher standards and quality culture.

“A lot of labs are operating with non-qualified staff and improper equipments and poor technology.

The accreditation programme will bring such labs under check. They will be registered and persuaded to upgrade their knowledge as well as technologies for the benefit of the people,” CPP President Manzoor Ahmad said.

He said: “This collaboration between the two bodies was the coming together of professionals who would ensure quality health services to the people.”