“Machines Do Not Produce Quality Laboratory Results by Themselves, People Do” – Dr. Laud Anthony Basing

Dr. Laud Anthony Basing

Keynote Speaker at the 5th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Society of Medical Laboratory Managers, Ghana (SMLM‑G), Dr. Laud Anthony Basing, has underscored the indispensable role of human expertise in delivering quality laboratory services, stressing that technology alone cannot guarantee accurate and reliable diagnostic outcomes.

“Machines do not produce quality laboratory results by themselves, people do,” he stated.

Speaking on the theme, “Advancing Quality Medical Laboratory Services Through Sustainable Financing and Human Resource Management,” Dr. Basing argued that although modern equipment and advanced technologies have significantly transformed laboratory medicine, the competence, professionalism, and dedication of laboratory personnel remain the most decisive factors in ensuring quality.

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Incas Diagnostics explained that every stage of the diagnostic process — from specimen collection and analysis to interpretation, quality control, and reporting — relies on skilled professionals who are properly trained, adequately supported, and empowered to perform their duties effectively.

Dr. Basing noted that many laboratory professionals continue to operate under intense pressure due to staffing shortages, rising workloads, and limited recognition, despite their central role in healthcare delivery. He emphasized that investments in equipment must be matched with investments in people through recruitment, continuous professional development, mentorship, leadership training, and improved staff welfare.

He further highlighted that sustainable human resource management is essential for maintaining quality standards, achieving accreditation, strengthening health systems, and ensuring patient safety. Laboratories, he said, can only reach their full potential when qualified professionals are equipped with the tools, resources, and institutional support required to excel.

Dr. Basing therefore urged policymakers, health facility managers, and stakeholders to place equal emphasis on workforce development and retention as part of broader efforts to improve laboratory services nationwide.

His remarks reinforced a central message of the AGM: that quality medical laboratory services are ultimately driven by competent, motivated, and well‑supported professionals whose expertise remains irreplaceable in the delivery of healthcare.

Michael Agbesi Kelly