The collaborative efforts between the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) and Bloom Public Health have recently been formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The primary objective of this partnership is to significantly enhance the capacity and service delivery of laboratories operating at the primary healthcare (PHC) level within Nigeria.
Dr. Tosan Erhabor, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the MLSCN, expressed a sense of optimism regarding the potential positive impact that this strategic collaboration could have on the landscape of medical laboratory practices and diagnostics in Nigeria. According to Dr. Erhabor, the core focus of this collaborative effort is the amplification of capabilities within laboratories situated at the PHC level. He emphasized the pivotal role that the PHC level plays as the foundation of any robust healthcare system. Dr. Erhabor believes that by fortifying the capacity and service delivery at this fundamental level, the entire health sector stands to undergo a transformative process.
In outlining the immediate goals of the partnership, Dr. Erhabor explained, “The immediate focus of the partnership is on upscaling the capacity of laboratories at the primary health care level. We strongly believe that the PHC level is the foundation of any health care system. Therefore, if we get the capacity and service delivery at that level right, the health sector will eventually be transformed.”
Moreover, Dr. Erhabor highlighted that, based on the successful outcomes achieved at the PHC level, the collaboration intends to extend its reach to the higher echelons of the health sector. This envisioned progression will involve the implementation of other crucial tools for ensuring excellence in medical laboratories, such as accreditation. Dr. Erhabor concluded his remarks by acknowledging the weighty responsibility that accompanies this collaboration, urging all involved parties to be mindful of the significant role they play in shaping the future of healthcare in Nigeria.
The CEO of Bloom Public Health, Prof Chimezie Anyakora, reciprocated the positive sentiments, acknowledging MLSCN’s noteworthy contributions to laboratory science practice over the last decade. Prof Anyakora foresees this partnership as a catalyst for enhancing the quality of healthcare delivery on a nationwide scale.
MLSCN
“Bloom Public Health will bring that non-governmental agility combined with the MLSCN- rich expertise and convening power to put together a strong force for the Nigerian health sector,” Prof Anyakora affirmed, highlighting the complementary nature of Bloom’s organizational agility and MLSCN’s extensive expertise. This collaboration, according to Prof Anyakora, is poised to create a robust and synergistic force that will address healthcare challenges and contribute to the overall advancement of the Nigerian health sector.
