Abstract:

Laboratory Quality Management Systems (LQMS) are pivotal in ensuring accurate, reliable, and timely diagnostic services, which are foundational to effective healthcare delivery. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the role of LQMS has become increasingly critical due to the region's diverse healthcare challenges and resource constraints. This review systematically examines the multifaceted impact of LQMS on healthcare systems within the region, drawing from a broad spectrum of scholarly literature and case studies. Key areas explored include enhancing diagnostic accuracy, improving operational efficiency, and facilitating timely clinical interventions. The review further investigates how LQMS fosters compliance with international quality standards such as ISO 15189 and ISO/IEC 17025, supports laboratory accreditation, and promotes trust among healthcare providers and patients. Additionally, the paper assesses the impact of LQMS on public health outcomes by examining its role in disease surveillance, outbreak response, and health system resilience. Challenges related to LQMS implementation, including infrastructural limitations, workforce capacity, and regulatory inconsistencies, are critically assessed. Moreover, the benefits and limitations of standardization in laboratory practices under LQMS frameworks are discussed, highlighting the importance of metrological traceability and global coordination. Through a structured thematic analysis, this review highlights the importance of strategic investment in quality management infrastructure, stakeholder training, and policy development to fully realize the potential of LQMS in enhancing healthcare delivery across Sub-Saharan Africa.

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