Joseph DeRisi (UCSF) Part 1: Malaria: The disease and parasites
This brief set of three lectures gives a very general overview of malaria, the disease and Plasmodium falciparum, the causative agent of the most deadly form. Basic research as well as drug development efforts will also be covered in parts two and three of this series. See more at http://www.ibioseminars.org
Why I Work to Stop Malaria
As a young girl in Ghana, Dr. Ofori-Anyinam watched her family get sick from malaria. Today, she is working to develop a malaria vaccine. Watch this video of Dr. Ofori-Anyinam telling her story about what has inspired her work.
Training/Seminar for Medical Technologist: 8th POSTGRADUATE COURSE IN INFECTIOUS DISEASE AND TROPICAL MEDICINE
The 8th Postgraduate Course in Infectious and Tropical Diseases of RITM will highlight the Realities, Insights, Triumphs and Milestones in the practice of infectious diseases. The theme…Realities – presents the local epidemiology of emerging and re-emerging infections and local outbreaks/epidemics of public health concern
Insights – discuss the current and latest discoveries, issues and findings in the pathogenesis and diagnosis of common and emerging infectious diseases
Triumphs – cover successful stories on the control and spread of near elimination of some infectious and tropical diseases
Milestones – highlight significant progress in the development of new vaccines and new antibiotics
The course will cover didactic lectures, case discussions, skill building activities and laboratory sessions.
The Medical Department of RITM hope that the scientific activities will progress successfully and this postgraduate course will achieve its purpose.
Theme: Realities, Insights, Triumphs, & Milestones
in the practice of infectious diseases
When: March 17 – 18, 2011
Where: RITM Auditorium, Training Center
Registration Fees:
Theme: Realities, Insights, Triumphs, & Milestones
in the practice of infectious diseases
When: March 17 – 18, 2011
Where: RITM Auditorium, Training Center
Registration Fees:
PhP 1,500.00 – Early registration (28 February 2011)
PhP 2,000.00 – On-site registration
RITM Accommodations Rate as of MARCH 2010
Airconditioned room:
Single occupancy – PhP 700.00/day
Double occupancy – PhP 900.00/day
Additional bed – PhP 200.00 /day
Non airconditioned room:
Single occupancy – PhP 380.00/day
Double occupancy – PhP 480.00/day
Additional bed – PhP 200.00 /day
(Prices of room accommodations are subject to change without prior notice)
(Prices of room accommodations are subject to change without prior notice)
FOR MORE INFORMATION, please contact:
Ms. Aimee Villablanca / Ms. Nila Morante / Ms. Ajhie Almazan
Medical Department Telefax: (+632) 8079603
RITM trunk lines: (+632) 8072628 to 32 local 801/611MY CHRISTMAS WISH THIS YEAR: A NOKIA C7
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| Nokia C7 Gallery www.nokia.com.ph |
Gone are the days when mobile phones were considered to be a luxury. It became a status symbol in countries including the Philippines where not everybody can afford one. It used to be a simple device that enable you to call other people wherever cellular signal is available. Mobile phones have evolved a lot since then. Literally thousands of different phones have been launched. This piece of technology has become more than its intended purpose.
In the recent years, smart phones emerged and become the new cell phones. They have become very sophisticated and technically advanced. And the demand for smart phones has continually increased because of the convenience it gives in this high-technology dependent age. You can store your contacts, planners and appointments on your phone. You can access your bank accounts and emails through the internet. You can take good quality pictures and even short video clips on some. These are only some of the features that the smart phones can do.
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| Nokia C7 Features www.nokia.com.ph |
For someone like me with a job that requires travelling a lot, having a reliable phone is a must. At first, I thought a simple mobile phone was enough. I was wrong.
Most of the areas that I visit to conduct training and do medical missions are new places to me. It has become my habit to capture photos of the beautiful scenarios and unique things that I only see in each particular area. Pictures are good reservoirs of memories that is why I keep them as part of my journal, documenting all the places I visit.
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| Underground River Boat Ride With My Colleagues |
Going on several short trips require me to pack light. Thus, bringing several devices like camera, laptops, PDA, and mp3 players is not practical. There was this one time when we had a boat ride to the underground river in Palawan, Philippines. Bedazzled by the beauty of this natural wonder, I scrambled looking for my camera to take pictures of the amazing view. When we got to our hotel that night, I searched for my mp3 player only to find out that it was gone. With all the gadgets that I had in my backpack, I realized that it fell off during the boat ride when I grabbed my camera.
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| Roy, Hayds, Jen, She and Elaine |
That’s the good thing about this beautifully crafted Nokia C7, you have all what you need in one gadget. Fit into the palm of your hand. The 8 megapixel camera with dual-LED flash will suffice your camera need. Photos and videos taken with this smart phone are brilliant with great details and colours and look sharp on the vivid 3.5” high-resolution display.
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| Nokia C7 Features www.nokia.com.ph |
Even with a tight budget, Nokia C7 is great for your basic smart phone needs. Without spending a fortune, the Nokia C7 provides you with amusing features. I can go out of town while staying connected to the office with all the apps that are available to choose from. I can also get live updates from Facebook and Twitter directly on the home screen. I would not mind spending my Christmas bonus this year to own this smart phone.
Do you have this on your Christmas wish list yet? I certainly have this one on mine. In fact, I really want this phone that I sometimes sing its features to the tune of The 12 Days of Christmas:
♫ ♪" On the first day of Christmas, Nokia sent to me
A high-resolution touchscreen.
On the second day of Christmas, Nokia sent to me
Dual-LED flash and
A high-resolution touchscreen.♫ ♪
On the third day of Christmas, Nokia sent to me
Three home screens
Dual-LED flash and
A high-resolution touchscreen.
On the fourth day of Christmas, Nokia sent to me
4-oz phone
Three home screens
Dual-LED flash and
A high-resolution touchscreen.
♫ ♪
On the fifth day of Christmas, Nokia sent to me
Apps from Ovi Store
4-oz phone
Three home screens
Dual-LED flash and
A high-resolution touchscreen.
On the sixth day of Christmas, Nokia sent to me
GPS navigation
Apps from Ovi Store
4-oz phone
Three home screens
Dual-LED flash and
A high-resolution touchscreen.
On the seventh day of Christmas, Nokia sent to me
Image geotagging
GPS navigation
Apps from Ovi Store
4-oz phone
Three home screens
Dual-LED flash and
A high-resolution touchscreen.♫ ♪
On the eighth day of Christmas, Nokia sent to me
8 MP camera
Image geotagging
GPS navigation
Apps from Ovi Store
4-oz phone
Three home screens
Dual-LED flash and
A high-resolution touchscreen.
On the ninth day of Christmas, Nokia sent to me
9-hour talk time
8MP camera
Image geotagging
GPS navigation
Apps from Ovi Store
4-oz phone
Three home screens
Dual-LED flash and
A high-resolution touchscreen.♫ ♪ On the tenth day of Christmas, Nokia sent to me
10 Mbps 3G
9-hour talk time
8 MP camera
Image geotagging
GPS navigation
Apps from Ovi Store
4-oz phone
Three home screens
Dual-LED flash and
A high-resolution touchscreen.
On the eleventh day of Christmas Nokia sent to me
Video recording
10 Mbps 3G
9-hour talk time
8 MP camera
Image geotagging
GPS navigation
Apps from Ovi Store
4 oz-phone
Three home screens
Dual-LED flash and
A high-resolution touchscreen.
On the twelfth day of Christmas Nokia sent to me
Full web browsing
Video recording
10 Mbps 3G
9-hour talk time
8 MP camera
Image geotagging
GPS navigation
Apps from Ovi Store
4-oz phone
Three home screens
Dual-LED flash and
A high-resolution touchscreen." ♫ ♪
Preparation of a Blood Smear for Malaria Microscopy
The thick film consists of several layers of red and white blood cells of about 10 to 20 times that of a thin film. The hemoglobin in the red blood cells are dissolved during staining, thus a large amount of blood can be examined quickly and easily. It is in this film also where parasites are counted when present.
A well prepared thin film consists of a single layer of red and white blood cells that is spread over half the slide. The film is fixed with methanol before staining to preserve the morphological characteristics of the cells making specie identification easier when cannot be done in the thick film.
Blood Smear Preparation for Malaria Microscopy
Harbour Square at the CCP Complex
By Jeffrey V. de Guzman
We had the chance to visit this gimmick place along Manila Bay during the conduct of refresher course on malaria microscopy last June 2010. We had a dinner at Dencio’s, one of the food and bar establishments located inside the place. Offering a student meal promo, we chose to eat there so that we can save our dinner allowances that night. But unfortunately, we were not able to avail the said budget meal because the waiter told us that the promo is for students only and we don’t have any student ID to show them. Some of us still tried to convince them that we were students. But we were not successful, may be because of our obvious greying hair and wrinkling face. So we looked and smiled at each other until finally deciding to stay just to show the people inside that we can afford such fine dining.
We all had the chance to browse the menu, and we looked at each other once again. May be you can imagine our reactions. A single meal would cost us one week of our allowance. We laughed and joked about it while inside. We planned to escape one by one but no one dared to initiate. So we just decided to order three dishes for the seven of us, a soup (with extra “sabaw”),” sisig na bangus”, and “kangkong” (which costs a bundle when bought from the market). And we just asked for the service water for our drinks. A big thanks to the rice and “sabaw” for our hunger was satisfied.
Nonetheless, we enjoyed our stay because we were laughing and joking all the time. It was a funny and unforgettable experience of the seven medical technologists who were trying to save but ended up spending more.
NEW CONTRIBUTOR!
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| Image from www.dental.ufl.edu |
First off, I want to thank you for checking my blog and taking your time to read through the articles that have been posted so far. As I try to keep you abreast with the current malaria situation in the Philippines, our blog is not limited only to that scope. This blog is also intended for other research and clinical scientists to share their thoughts and experiences in and out of the laboratory.
With that, I would like to introduce our newest contributor. He is a research scientist in a cellular microbiology laboratory at the University of Florida Emerging Pathogens Institute. He also happens to be my youngest brother and shares the same nickname as mine. He graduated with a degree in Public Health from University of the Philippines (UP) Manila and pursued his masters in Medical Science at the Kyungpook National University School of Medicine in South Korea.
Through this blog he wishes to reach out and share his research experiences. Let's all welcome Jeff.
Get to know him more: click here>>>
Through this blog he wishes to reach out and share his research experiences. Let's all welcome Jeff.
Get to know him more: click here>>>
Reagent Strips
By Jeffrey V. de Guzman
Testing methodology consists of dipping the strip completely, but briefly, into a well-mixed urine specimen; removing excess urine by touching the edge of the strip to the container . Even though this is a simple procedure, improper technique can result in errors.
In addition to the use of correct testing technique, performance of quality control and care of reagent strips must be observed in order to guarantee quality patient care. All clinical laboratories must have a quality assurance program in place. Quality assurance program includes procedures for quality control of specimen collection and handling, reagents and test performance, instrument calibration and maintenance, reporting of results, personnel performance and requirements, safety, and documentation that the program is being followed.
Reagent strips must be protected from deterioration caused by moisture, volatile chemicals, heat, and light. Strips are packaged in opaque containers with desiccant, and when not in use, these bottles should be stored tightly closed in a cool area. Bottles should not be opened in the presence of volatile fumes. All bottles are stamped with an expiration date that represents the functional life expectancy of the chemical pads. This date must be honoured even if there is no noticeable deterioration of the reagents.
Unexpired strips should be tested for chemical reactivity with controls of known negative and abnormal concentrations. Distilled water is not recommended for use as a negative control because reagent strip chemical reactions are designed to perform at an ionic concentration consistent with urine. Additional or confirmatory procedures employing different chemical principles must be available for the substances being tested by reagent strip and should be used when questionable results are obtained or, in some instances, to confirm all positive results.
Observing all these procedures in routine urinalysis produces a win win situation between the laboratory and the patients. Our business is to provide a quality health care for our patients. But still, some laboratories do not comply with all these standards. An example of such violations is the cutting of reagent strips into halves.
To quote one of their reason, “We cut urine strips into halves since cut and whole strips will produce equal results, thus minimizing our costs and consequently the charge to our patients”.
I’m sure you are scratching your head right now. And if you happen to be the inspector, what would be your answer to this?
Reference: Susan King Strasinger: Urinalysis and body fluids.F.A. Davis Company, 1997
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Routine chemical examination of the urine has changed dramatically since the early days of urine testing, owing to the development of the reagent strip method for chemical analysis. Reagent strips currently provide a simple, rapid means for performing 10 medically significant chemical analyses, including pH, protein, glucose, ketones, blood, bilirubin, urobilinogen, nitrite, leukocytes, and specific gravity.
Testing methodology consists of dipping the strip completely, but briefly, into a well-mixed urine specimen; removing excess urine by touching the edge of the strip to the container . Even though this is a simple procedure, improper technique can result in errors.
In addition to the use of correct testing technique, performance of quality control and care of reagent strips must be observed in order to guarantee quality patient care. All clinical laboratories must have a quality assurance program in place. Quality assurance program includes procedures for quality control of specimen collection and handling, reagents and test performance, instrument calibration and maintenance, reporting of results, personnel performance and requirements, safety, and documentation that the program is being followed.
Reagent strips must be protected from deterioration caused by moisture, volatile chemicals, heat, and light. Strips are packaged in opaque containers with desiccant, and when not in use, these bottles should be stored tightly closed in a cool area. Bottles should not be opened in the presence of volatile fumes. All bottles are stamped with an expiration date that represents the functional life expectancy of the chemical pads. This date must be honoured even if there is no noticeable deterioration of the reagents.
Unexpired strips should be tested for chemical reactivity with controls of known negative and abnormal concentrations. Distilled water is not recommended for use as a negative control because reagent strip chemical reactions are designed to perform at an ionic concentration consistent with urine. Additional or confirmatory procedures employing different chemical principles must be available for the substances being tested by reagent strip and should be used when questionable results are obtained or, in some instances, to confirm all positive results.
Observing all these procedures in routine urinalysis produces a win win situation between the laboratory and the patients. Our business is to provide a quality health care for our patients. But still, some laboratories do not comply with all these standards. An example of such violations is the cutting of reagent strips into halves.
To quote one of their reason, “We cut urine strips into halves since cut and whole strips will produce equal results, thus minimizing our costs and consequently the charge to our patients”.
I’m sure you are scratching your head right now. And if you happen to be the inspector, what would be your answer to this?
Reference: Susan King Strasinger: Urinalysis and body fluids.F.A. Davis Company, 1997
Malaria Microscopy Quality Assurance
An overview of the Malaria Microscopy Quality Assurance in the Philippines based from the Department of Heath - Malaria Control Program Manual of Procedures.
Presentation prepared by Jocelyn Rosete Pascua
An Overview of the Malaria Microscopy Quality Assurance in the Philippines -
Presentation prepared by Jocelyn Rosete Pascua
An Overview of the Malaria Microscopy Quality Assurance in the Philippines -
CERTIFIED MALARIA- FREE
Source: www.doh.gov.ph
Health Secretary Enrique T. Ona and Governor Vilma Santos Recto join hands in unveiling the official marker declaring Batangas as a Malaria-Free Province. The Department of Health made the declaration after five years of intensive internal and external evaluation and finding out that there is no trace of any local transmission. In his message, Secretary Ona commended Batangas health workers and local officials headed by Governor Vilma for their determined action and commitment to totally eradicate malaria from the province. Malaria is a life-threatening disease transmitted by mosquitoes. It affects 40% of the world’s population, putting 3.2 billion people at risk in tropical countries like the Philippines. It is one of the leading causes of deaths worldwide.
CERTIFIED MALARIA- FREE
An Alleged Army Major Trying To Steal Money From Owners Of Clinical Laboratories In Bulacan
By Jeffrey V. de Guzman
Introducing himself as a dear friend of Attorney Lutero of Bureau of Health Facilities and Services Division of the Department of Health, this alleged army major tries to rip off money from clinical laboratory owners in Bulacan. This unknown man identified himself as an army major to sell tickets to the unsuspecting owners. Apparently, he was forcing them to buy three tickets that cost 6,000 pesos apiece.
The first grievance came from the owner of San Roque Drug Testing Laboratory. According to one of her staff, she received a call from a woman saying that her boss wants to talk to the owner. The man introduced himself as an army major and a close friend of attorney Lutero, who happens to be the chief of BHFS. The man said that attorney Lutero want to sell three tickets to her and his representative will deliver the tickets and collect the payment.
The CHD 3 office also received information that one owner of another laboratory in Bulacan actually bought one ticket already. And last Friday (November 26, 2010), we received another complaint from the owner of a laboratory from San Jose Del Monte City.
An investigation is underway as of this writing. On behalf of the department, we want to inform everyone that no such solicitation has been authorized and other related activities are not permitted. Through this article, please be warned and be extra careful when dealing with people who are trying to associate themselves with Atty. Lutero or any member of the department.
We are calling on everyone involved to please help us in disseminating the information to stop this fraudulent incident from happening again.
Introducing himself as a dear friend of Attorney Lutero of Bureau of Health Facilities and Services Division of the Department of Health, this alleged army major tries to rip off money from clinical laboratory owners in Bulacan. This unknown man identified himself as an army major to sell tickets to the unsuspecting owners. Apparently, he was forcing them to buy three tickets that cost 6,000 pesos apiece.
The first grievance came from the owner of San Roque Drug Testing Laboratory. According to one of her staff, she received a call from a woman saying that her boss wants to talk to the owner. The man introduced himself as an army major and a close friend of attorney Lutero, who happens to be the chief of BHFS. The man said that attorney Lutero want to sell three tickets to her and his representative will deliver the tickets and collect the payment.
The CHD 3 office also received information that one owner of another laboratory in Bulacan actually bought one ticket already. And last Friday (November 26, 2010), we received another complaint from the owner of a laboratory from San Jose Del Monte City.
An investigation is underway as of this writing. On behalf of the department, we want to inform everyone that no such solicitation has been authorized and other related activities are not permitted. Through this article, please be warned and be extra careful when dealing with people who are trying to associate themselves with Atty. Lutero or any member of the department.
We are calling on everyone involved to please help us in disseminating the information to stop this fraudulent incident from happening again.
Application Form For The Renewal of License To Operate General Clinical Laboratories In Central Luzon
Below is the copy of the application form for initial and renewal of license to operate a general clinical laboratory. This can actually be downloaded from the DOH website. The only difference is that the list of personnel and equipment must also be submitted for the renewal of license even without changes.
This is intended for clinical laboratories under the jurisdiction of Center for Health Development 3. Always prepare a duplicate copy of all the documents submitted.
Application For License To Operate A General Clinical Laboratory in the Philippines -
Please see the latest checklist of application documents here
This is intended for clinical laboratories under the jurisdiction of Center for Health Development 3. Always prepare a duplicate copy of all the documents submitted.
Application For License To Operate A General Clinical Laboratory in the Philippines -
Please see the latest checklist of application documents here
TIME FOR SOME PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
By Jeffrey V. de Guzman
For those who work in a laboratory, and actually for most Filipinos from all walks of life and age groups demonstrated a trend toward increasing overweight and obesity. This is partly due to lack of regular exercise and movement of the body. This trend strengthens the urgency to promote physical activity among Filipinos.
For the majority of people, a sedentary lifestyle constitutes a major health risk. But for a very small minority, physical or sporting activity may be risk for health. Therefore, anyone who has a special health condition or illness, or suspect of having one, should consult their family physician before engaging in any physical activity or exercise.
For those who work in a laboratory, and actually for most Filipinos from all walks of life and age groups demonstrated a trend toward increasing overweight and obesity. This is partly due to lack of regular exercise and movement of the body. This trend strengthens the urgency to promote physical activity among Filipinos.
For the majority of people, a sedentary lifestyle constitutes a major health risk. But for a very small minority, physical or sporting activity may be risk for health. Therefore, anyone who has a special health condition or illness, or suspect of having one, should consult their family physician before engaging in any physical activity or exercise.
PAMET 2010 46th Annual Convention
PRELIMINARY SCIENTIFIC PROGRAMNOVEMBER 30, 2010 ON-SITE REGISTRATION
1:00-5:00 P.M. (THE TENT)
DECEMBER 1, 2010 ON-SITE REGISTRATION
8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. (THE TENT)
DECEMBER 1, 2010
PRE-CONVENTION WORKSHOPS
(NEEDS REGISTRATION)
8:00 -12:00 A.M.
WORKSHOPS TOPICS
8:00 12:00 AM
Centennial A :: Quality Control in Clinical Laboratory
Centennial B :: Diagnostic and Prognostic markers in Sepsis
Millenium Salon :: Overview of DSSM based on PTSI workshop`
Champagne Salon :: Evaluation of Sperm Morphology
DECEMBER 1, 2010
1:00 – 6:00 P.M.
THE TENT OPENING OF EXHIBITS
FIESTA PAVILION OPENING & AWARDING CEREMONIES
FIESTA PAVILION BUSINESS MEETING
6:30 – 9:30 P.M.
SAMPAGUITA HALL CHAPTER’S MEETING
Source: http://www.pametinc.org
Hemoglobin Determination Methods in the Philippines
This article is intended to address the common violation of clinical laboratories with regards to haemoglobin determination. Majority of the non-hospital based freestanding clinical laboratories specially primary categories do not even perform the test but a result is being released by multiplying a factor (0.333) to the hematocrit of the patient. Poor patients, they are paying for the test but without knowing that it is actually not being done by the medical technologist involved. Such thing is very unprofessional and with all the notices and warnings issued by the regulatory officers, this practice still exist.
The approved standard for quantitative blood haemoglobin determination in the Philippines is by using the hemiglobincyanide (HiCN) or commonly known as the cyanmethemoglobin method. To perform this method, blood is mixed with Drabkin's solution, a solution that contains ferricyanide and cyanide. The ferricyanide oxidizes the iron in the hemoglobin, thereby changing hemoglobin to methemoglobin. Methemoglobin then unites with the cyanide to form cyanmethemoglobin. All forms of hemoglobin likely to occur in circulatory blood, with the exception of sulfhemoglobin, are determined. Cyanmethemoglobin produces a color which is measured in a colorimeter, spectrophotometer, or automated instrument. The color is suitable for measurement in filter as well as in narrow-band spectrophotometers, because its absorption band at a wavelength of 540 nanometers is broad and relatively flat. The color relates to the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood. Standards prepared from either crystalline hemoglobin or washed erythrocytes and stored in a brown glass container and in sterile condition are stable for at least nine months (change 2%).
Since very few primary category clinical laboratory are equipped with hemoglobinometer or a photometer, the regulatory officers consider manual methods which include the Haden-Hausse and Sahli-Hellige methods. In both methods, blood is mixed with dilute hydrochloric acid. This process hemolyzes the red cells, disrupting the integrity of the red cells' membrane and causing the release of hemoglobin, which, in turn, is converted to a brownish-colored solution of acid hematin. The acid hematin solution is then compared with a color standard.
This methods of determination of haemoglobin as haeminchloride (acid haematin) though not recommended because of their unreliability, are sufficient for routine examination provided they are properly done.
Below is the procedure for the Sahli-Hellige method.
Materials Required:
- · Distilled water
- · Sahli-helligehemoglobinometerkit containing:
o Small bottle of dilute (approx. 0.1N) hydrochloric acid. Prepare this solution by adding 1 ml of concentrated HCl to 99 ml of distilled water. POUR ACID INTO WATER. Replenish this peri-odically–it must be of proper strength.
o Graduated tube, with a scale on two sides. On one side is the percentage scale, and on the opposite side is the gram scale. The percentage scale reads from 0 to 170. The gram scale reads from 0 to 24.
- · Pipette, marked at the 20 mm 3 level
- · Stirring rod
- · Color comparator, with a window in the side. On the right and left sides of this opening is the color standard for comparison. The center has an open slot to hold the graduated tube.
- With a medicine dropper, place 5 drops of the 0.lN HCl in the bottom of the graduated tube. Place the tube in the color comparator.
- Using well-mixed venous blood or fingertip blood, fill the pipette to the 20 mm mark.
- Wipe blood from the outside of the pipette. Transfer blood to the Sahli tube. Note the time.
- Aspirate distilled water into the pipette two or three times and transfer these washings to the tube.
- Shake until the blood is well mixed and the tube is a uniform color.
- Add distilled water, drop by drop, each time mixing the solution with the stirring rod. Keep adding water and mixing until the color of the solution matches the standards on either side. Remove the stirring rod from the tube each time before com-paring. Natural light makes more accurate readings possible.
- Five minutes after time noted, read the result from the scale on the tube by noting the graduation mark at the lower edge of the meniscus. Read and report both scales.
Application for Renewal of License To Operate (LTO) of Non-hospital Based Clinical Laboratories in the Philippines
This is in accordance to Republic Act No. 4688 s. 1966, “An Act Regulating the Operation and Maintenance of Clinical Laboratories and Requiring the Registration of the Same with the Department of Health, Providing Penalty for the Violation Thereof, and for Other Purposes” and DOH Administrative Order No. 2007-0027: Revised Rules and Regulations Governing the Licensure and Regulation Of Clinical Laboratories in the Philippines.
Every clinical laboratory shall be organized to provide quality, effective and efficient laboratory services. A checklist for licensure of a general clinical laboratory is available which may serve as a guide for self-assessment of the facility. To access the tool click the link here.
The LTO shall be issued only to clinical laboratories that comply with the standards and technical requirements formulated by the BHFS.
The LTO shall be issued only to clinical laboratories that comply with the standards and technical requirements formulated by the BHFS.
The procedural guideline is as follows:
- Filing of application begins on the first day of October until the last day of November of the current year. A ten (10) percent discount on the renewal fee shall be granted if a complete application is filed during this period.
- Applicants can acquire the prescribed application form for LTO from the BHFS, CHD that has jurisdiction over the existing clinical laboratory, or at the DOH website (www.doh.gov.ph)
- The accomplished form together with the necessary attachments is to be submitted to the CHD that has jurisdiction over the existing clinical laboratory. Incomplete attachments would not be accepted. Trainings and seminars attended must be of the current year.
- The applicant shall be required to pay a non-refundable application fee for LTO upon submission of the accomplished form.
- Renewal of license for compliant clinical laboratories shall be processed not later than five (5) working days after the expiration date of its license.
- The LTO of a clinical laboratory shall be automatically cancelled without notice when it fails to submit a duly accomplished application form and to pay the proper fee on or before the expiration date stated in its license.
Malaria vaccine closer than ever, scientists say
Malaria vaccine closer than ever, scientists say
AFP - Wednesday, September 29
Scientists are closer than ever to rolling out the first malaria vaccine, which could be available in Africa by 2015, a co-inventor of the shot against the killer disease said Tuesday.
Advanced trials of the RTS,S vaccine against falciparum malaria, the deadliest strain of the disease, are under way in seven African countries and going "very well," said GlaxoSmithKline researcher Joe Cohen, who has been working on developing the vaccine for over 20 years.
"We believe we'll have the first data coming out of the trials in 2012, and, to make a long story short, we could have the first implementation in Africa between 2015 and 2016," he told AFP.
Continue reading here >>>
AFP - Wednesday, September 29
Scientists are closer than ever to rolling out the first malaria vaccine, which could be available in Africa by 2015, a co-inventor of the shot against the killer disease said Tuesday.
Advanced trials of the RTS,S vaccine against falciparum malaria, the deadliest strain of the disease, are under way in seven African countries and going "very well," said GlaxoSmithKline researcher Joe Cohen, who has been working on developing the vaccine for over 20 years.
"We believe we'll have the first data coming out of the trials in 2012, and, to make a long story short, we could have the first implementation in Africa between 2015 and 2016," he told AFP.
Continue reading here >>>
PRC: 910 pass Med Tech board exams
Click the link below for the complete list of successful examinees.
PRC: 910 pass Med Tech board exams | ABS-CBN News | Latest Philippine Headlines, Breaking News, Video, Analysis, Features
PRC: 910 pass Med Tech board exams | ABS-CBN News | Latest Philippine Headlines, Breaking News, Video, Analysis, Features
Refresher Course on Malaria Microscopy for Medical Technologists
The second batch of the Refresher Course which was also held at the Orchid Garden Suites, Manila.
A Visit to Microtel Inn & Suites in Palawan
By Jeffrey V. de Guzman
I just recently attended a seminar/workshop on Integrity Development Plan of Action which was held at the Microtel Inn & Suites in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. If you are planning for a short vacation or extended stay to rest from your stressful work in the city, the place can be an option.
I just recently attended a seminar/workshop on Integrity Development Plan of Action which was held at the Microtel Inn & Suites in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. If you are planning for a short vacation or extended stay to rest from your stressful work in the city, the place can be an option.
Refresher Course on Malaria Microscopy for Medical Technologists
The Malaria Control Program (MCP) of the National Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Department of Health in collaboration with Center for Health Development 3 through the support of Global Fund Consolidated Malaria Project conduct Refresher Course on Malaria Microscopy for Medical Technologists from Global Fund Provinces expansion sites to further enhance their knowledge, skills, and capabilities in diagnosing malaria. A refresher course will be conducted on a regular basis every after three (3) or five (5) years.
The training course was divided into three (3) batches with at least thirteen (13) participants each. It was held at the Orchid Garden Suites, Manila on June 28 – July 2, 2010 for the first batch; July 5 – 9, 2010 for the second batch; and July 12 – 16 for the third batch.
The course objective to equip participants with knowledge and skills on malaria microscopy were satisfactorily achieved through lecture discussions, actual demonstrations, and microscopy sessions using bench microscopes with topics on the morphology of human malaria, basic laboratory techniques, the new drug policy, care and maintenance of microscope, parasite quantification, quality assurance, and PHILMIS.
All participants were able to finish the course with satisfactory grades. A comparison of the general average of the class in the pre and post tests showed a significant increase in the theoretical and practical examinations.
Evaluation of the course by the participants resulted to a very high overall rating. Participants expressed their satisfaction in the training materials, coverage of the course, venue, facilitators, and the general atmosphere in the conduct of the training.
Workable Recording and Documentation System for Microscope Preventive Maintenance
It has been said, “work not recorded is work not done”. Therefore, such job must have a corresponding job request / report. Preventive maintenance report indicating among other things such as, the nature of work done, parts used, date of repair / PM, and other important and useful information are usually found.
Equipment Record
Records shall be maintained which include the
following:
Name of equipment
Manufacturer’s name, serial number or other unique identification
Date received and placed in service
Condition when received (new, used)
Records of calibration, date of next calibration
Details of maintenance carried out
Current location, where appropriate
Copy of manufacturer’s operating instructions, where available
History of damage, malfunction or repair
Routine Inspection
Ocular check of the physical surface
Checking electrical plugs, sockets, cables, bulbs
Check screws and other mechanical parts
Check optical elements from mechanical damage and dirt
Check illumination by plugging it to electric power source
Performance Check
Run the field stop diaphragm throughout its full range
Move all the blades of iris by its lever control
Run the condenser height adjustment full range; check its centering screw if it moves the condenser smoothly.
Check the mechanical stage if it can move the specimen smoothly and without play throughout its full range. Check by observing at the microscope’s highest magnification.
Parameter: 1 micron stage movement observed at 1000X magnification looks like 1 mm viewed without a microscope and at a distance of 250 mm.
Objectives mounting shoulder, nosepiece must be absolutely clean. If not, centering and focusing are lost.
Rotate nosepiece through 360º and observe all clicking stop positions from either side without any play
Run the fine and coarse adjustment knobs throughout their full range of adjustment.
Make sure that the upper surface of the stand and the corresponding mounting surfaces of the observation tube must be cleaned & free of corrosion.
Adjustment of interpupillary distance of the tube must run smoothly and without exerting undue force.
All optical surfaces must be absolutely cleaned. Pay special attention to: light bulb, cover glass on field stop, condenser front lens, objective front lens, upper surface of eye lens. Inspect and clean accordingly.
Equipment Record
Records shall be maintained which include the
following:
Name of equipment
Manufacturer’s name, serial number or other unique identification
Date received and placed in service
Condition when received (new, used)
Records of calibration, date of next calibration
Details of maintenance carried out
Current location, where appropriate
Copy of manufacturer’s operating instructions, where available
History of damage, malfunction or repair
Routine Inspection
Ocular check of the physical surface
Checking electrical plugs, sockets, cables, bulbs
Check screws and other mechanical parts
Check optical elements from mechanical damage and dirt
Check illumination by plugging it to electric power source
Performance Check
Run the field stop diaphragm throughout its full range
Move all the blades of iris by its lever control
Run the condenser height adjustment full range; check its centering screw if it moves the condenser smoothly.
Check the mechanical stage if it can move the specimen smoothly and without play throughout its full range. Check by observing at the microscope’s highest magnification.
Parameter: 1 micron stage movement observed at 1000X magnification looks like 1 mm viewed without a microscope and at a distance of 250 mm.
Objectives mounting shoulder, nosepiece must be absolutely clean. If not, centering and focusing are lost.
Rotate nosepiece through 360º and observe all clicking stop positions from either side without any play
Run the fine and coarse adjustment knobs throughout their full range of adjustment.
Make sure that the upper surface of the stand and the corresponding mounting surfaces of the observation tube must be cleaned & free of corrosion.
Adjustment of interpupillary distance of the tube must run smoothly and without exerting undue force.
All optical surfaces must be absolutely cleaned. Pay special attention to: light bulb, cover glass on field stop, condenser front lens, objective front lens, upper surface of eye lens. Inspect and clean accordingly.
Microscope Bulb Installation & Replacement
• Setting the line voltage selector switch in position
Ascertain that the line voltage selector switch (1) is set in conformity with the local line voltage. If not, the switch should be set at 100V (110~120V) or 200V (220~240V) correctly by means of a screw driver.
/a
1. Turn the microscope on its side and pull the lamp housing knob (1) to open the lamp housing cover (2)
2. Install the bulb.
• 6V, 20W halogen bulb
Hold the halogen bulb contained in a polyethylene bag to avoid leaning finger prints on the bulb and insert the contact pins into the bulb socket all the way (3).
• 110V/120V 30W tungsten bulb
Insert the tungsten bulb with its mirror portion (4) located at the lower side into the bulb socket; (3) then, pressing it against the socket, rotate the bulb clockwise.
– Before use, wipe off fingerprints or soils on the bulb.
– 110 V bulb for local line voltage 120V or higher.
– After bulb installation, close the lamp housing cover (2) , pushing in the cover knob (1) .
– If the bulb burns out during observation, be certain to cool the defective bulb completely before replacement.
Tungsten Bulb
• Pull power plug
– Place microscope on its side so that rack and knob of the mechanical stage are facing up
• Loosen clamping screw
– Remove lamp socket from spring clamp. Unscrew burnt-out lamp from the socket, and insert new 6V, 5W filament lamp. Wipe off any fingerprints on the lamp bulb.
• To insert new lamp, put lamp socket into spring clamp, turning and shifting it until lamp coil and its mirror image are opposite each other when observing lamp and concave mirror. Insert lamp holder with filament lamp in receptacle so that screw fits into slot. Tighten clamping screw
Ascertain that the line voltage selector switch (1) is set in conformity with the local line voltage. If not, the switch should be set at 100V (110~120V) or 200V (220~240V) correctly by means of a screw driver.
/a
1. Turn the microscope on its side and pull the lamp housing knob (1) to open the lamp housing cover (2)
2. Install the bulb.
• 6V, 20W halogen bulb
Hold the halogen bulb contained in a polyethylene bag to avoid leaning finger prints on the bulb and insert the contact pins into the bulb socket all the way (3).
• 110V/120V 30W tungsten bulb
Insert the tungsten bulb with its mirror portion (4) located at the lower side into the bulb socket; (3) then, pressing it against the socket, rotate the bulb clockwise.
– Before use, wipe off fingerprints or soils on the bulb.
– 110 V bulb for local line voltage 120V or higher.
– After bulb installation, close the lamp housing cover (2) , pushing in the cover knob (1) .
– If the bulb burns out during observation, be certain to cool the defective bulb completely before replacement.
Tungsten Bulb
• Pull power plug
– Place microscope on its side so that rack and knob of the mechanical stage are facing up
• Loosen clamping screw
– Remove lamp socket from spring clamp. Unscrew burnt-out lamp from the socket, and insert new 6V, 5W filament lamp. Wipe off any fingerprints on the lamp bulb.
• To insert new lamp, put lamp socket into spring clamp, turning and shifting it until lamp coil and its mirror image are opposite each other when observing lamp and concave mirror. Insert lamp holder with filament lamp in receptacle so that screw fits into slot. Tighten clamping screw
Moratorium on the Issuance of Permit to Construct and License to Operate Free Standing Clinical Laboratories Nationwide
In order to address this problem, the Bureau of Health Facilities and Services shall spearhead the creation of a quality assurance and monitoring program. The quality assurance and monitoring program will be composed of a two-fold scheme namely regular conduct of spot-checking and development of an organized external quality assurance system. The main objective of this program is to ensure good laboratory practice and maintenance of high quality performance among clinical laboratories in the Philippines.
In view of such undertaking, a moratorium on free-standing clinical laboratories will be imposed starting April 1, 2003 until such time that the quality assurance and monitoring program has been organized and in place. Only applications for permit to construct received by the bureau on or before March 31, 2003 shall be processed. The moratorium on freestanding clinical laboratories shall not apply to drug testing laboratories.
Republic of the Philippines Department of Health-BUREAU OF HEALTH FACILITIES AND SERVICES, BUREAU CIRCULAR No. 3 s. 2003
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If you require any more information or have any questions about our privacy policy, please feel free to contact us by email at jeffreydeguzman77@gmail.com.
At lablifeandbeyond.blogspot.com, the privacy of our visitors is of extreme importance to us. This privacy policy document outlines the types of personal information is received and collected by lablifeandbeyond.blogspot.com and how it is used.
Log Files
Like many other Web sites, lablifeandbeyond.blogspot.com makes use of log files. The information inside the log files includes internet protocol ( IP ) addresses, type of browser, Internet Service Provider ( ISP ), date/time stamp, referring/exit pages, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement around the site, and gather demographic information. IP addresses, and other such information are not linked to any information that is personally identifiable.
Cookies and Web Beacons
lablifeandbeyond.blogspot.com does use cookies to store information about visitors preferences, record user-specific information on which pages the user access or visit, customize Web page content based on visitors browser type or other information that the visitor sends via their browser.
DoubleClick DART Cookie
.:: Google, as a third party vendor, uses cookies to serve ads on lablifeandbeyond.blogspot.com.
.:: Google's use of the DART cookie enables it to serve ads to users based on their visit to lablifeandbeyond.blogspot.com and other sites on the Internet.
.:: Users may opt out of the use of the DART cookie by visiting the Google ad and content network privacy policy at the following URL - http://www.google.com/privacy_ads.html
Some of our advertising partners may use cookies and web beacons on our site. Our advertising partners include ....
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