Quality specifications of clinical laboratory procedures: developing country needs

In developing countries laboratory measurements are made in specimens of po pulations that are usually of different genetic origin and live in a differ ent environment, under working conditions that differ from those of industr ialized countries. The setting of quality specifications of laboratory meas urements must take into account such differences to improve the quality of laboratory services in these countries. Industry and professional organizat ions should be aware of the differences, otherwise their recommendations ma y counteract efforts to improve laboratory services in developing countries .