Doctors of the World, a non-governmental, humanitarian organization has undertaken a five-year Tuberculosis Control Project in Kosovo. The overall goal of this project is to reduce morbidity and mortality resulting from tuberculosis infection. In addtion to utilizing strategies such as vaccination and health education campaigns, strengthening of laboratory services (direct smear microscopy) is a key element in attaining our goal. This report will address actions taken and barriers encountered in strengthening laboratory services in post-war Kosovo. Furthermore, this report will underscore the importance of humanitarian organizations addressing medical/health projects to include long-term, sustainable laboratory services.
Learning Objectives: 1.Identify barriers to establishing tuberculosis laboratory services in post-war conditions. 2. Describe changes made to exsisting laboratory services in Kosovo. 3. Describe strategies involved in set up of tuberculosis laboratory services in a resource poor setting
Keywords: Tuberculosis, War
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Doctors of the World-USA/Kosovo
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.