Better Testing and Diagnosis of HIV and Hepatitis

Test results for HIV and Hepatitis in Moldova will now be more accurate and reliable, thanks to the reorganization of the laboratory network, new equipment, and training Today, the Reference Laboratory for Diagnosing Viral Hepatitis and HIV was inaugurated in Chisinau.  Speaking at the opening ceremony, USAID Country Program Officer Gary Linden said, "A highly functioning laboratory network is crucial." The Reference Laboratory now has high quality viral hepatitis and HIV diagnostic equipment, valued at $271,000 USD.  The Preventing HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B & C Project which provided the equipment, is managed by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Since November 2007, PHHP has trained more than 200 laboratory specialists from across the country to diagnose viral hepatitis according to both the international accreditation criteria and the European Quality Management System.   The Reference Laboratory assures cohesion in the laboratory system and quality management of testing.  The Reference Laboratory also collects, analyzes, and stores disease-related data from the network so that health specialists and public policy makers can make better informed decisions about the health of their patients. In addition to equipment and training, two new guides were developed on modern methods of viral hepatitis diagnosis.  Using these guides Moldova’s Laboratory Service can implement international standards and quality management systems. For more information please contact Jordan Engler, Project Leader, PHHP at tel.: +373.22.75.55.36 or at email: jordan@phh.md. ### Preventing HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B & C Project (PHHP) is a USAID-funded project that seeks to prevent the transmission of HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B & C project by reducing high risk behaviors, increasing the demand for health services, and improving the quality of and access to those services. With funding from the United States Government, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) provides economic and humanitarian assistance in more than 100 countries to provide a better future for all.