Excitement filled the air among health workers, local leaders, and the general public as Bududa Hospital Medical Laboratory officially earned international accreditation from the esteemed South African National Accreditation System (SANAS).
This accreditation, granted under the globally recognized ISO 15189:2022 standard, is a landmark achievement — especially for a laboratory in a rural setting — symbolizing international recognition of quality and competence.
Bududa Hospital serves nearly 300,000 people from Bududa and neighboring districts, including Manafwa, Namisindwa, and others. This recognition not only reflects the laboratory’s technical capability but also affirms the presence of a robust quality management system for the medical tests offered to the public.
Stakeholders are calling it a groundbreaking development for the region’s health sector.
Dr. Sylivia Ntegeka, Superintendent of Bududa Hospital, emphasized the significance of this milestone in strengthening trust in laboratory services and enabling both domestic and international collaborations.
“The results acquired from Bududa will now be internationally recognized,” she said, explaining that the standards confirm the laboratory’s competence in specific tests and its ability to uphold quality management systems.
Dr. Ntegeka described the accreditation as a remarkable milestone that directly benefits the local population by delivering reliable, high-standard medical services. She revealed that the laboratory is now accredited in Haematology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, and Serology, depending on the nature of the diagnosis.
She further outlined a strategic vision to expand the laboratory’s accreditation to include other prevalent diseases in the region, reaffirming a proactive approach to local health challenges.
Mr. Martin Kiplangat, Chief Administrative Officer of Bududa District, said the accreditation serves as a benchmark for excellence, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining strict quality standards that are essential for accurate and reliable diagnostics.
“We have become systematic and standardized in the way we do our work,” he noted.
Mr. Kiplangat urged health workers to uphold integrity and avoid charging for services, reminding them that the Ugandan government provides free equipment and pays their salaries.
“The laboratory should never become a hub for collecting money from the public,” he warned, adding that any health worker who violates this principle would face appropriate action.
He also extended heartfelt gratitude to Baylor Uganda for their technical and material support, which played a crucial role in the laboratory attaining this achievement.
“Baylor’s support has not gone unnoticed. We are very grateful,” he said.
