FEATURE
At CDC , we always say , ‘ A disease threat anywhere is a disease threat everywhere ,’ so we are truly only as strong as our weakest link in the public health system — and that system is global .”
— Kayla Laserson , ScD
What ’ s the remedy ? Enlisting the help of APHL and other partners to develop relationships with manufacturers and convince them that there ’ s a need in a region is a start , said Vetter , who noted that APHL can help laboratories develop the language they need to communicate with manufacturers about the importance of their mission .
“ That ’ s good for the manufacturers , who can see there ’ s a market for something , and it ’ s good for the laboratories and for public health in general ,” she added .
The Road Forward
Global laboratory coordination is closer than ever , but silos still exist . More investment in training , infrastructure , data and technology sharing will be key .
“ At CDC , we always say , ‘ A disease threat anywhere is a disease threat everywhere ,’ so we are truly only as strong as our weakest link in the public health system — and that system is global ,” said Laserson . “ Equitable access to technologies and training , along with a culture of continual quality / learning / improvement and supportive leadership , will yield high quality testing in any laboratory in the world .”
Focusing on a One Health lens will also be essential .
“ Oftentimes , our investments are going into human health and we ’ re underappreciating the importance of how animal health and environmental health impacts it ,” Maryogo-Robinson said . “ And we often don ’ t get the full view . We know one affects the other , and we need better communication between them . There ’ s still a gap there today but acknowledging that we need that kind of dialogue is moving in the right direction .” g
Share your laboratories ’ success stories !
Help us reveal what the public health community stands to lose without dedicated and long-term support . Share your story with APHL by scanning the QR code or visiting bit . ly / Lab-Informatics .
The Innovations in Informatics : Laboratory Success Stories series from APHL showcases innovations and enhancements in informatics , made possible by recent funding opportunities related to COVID-19 , data modernization and public health infrastructure . It highlights the critical need for ongoing , targeted and sustainable informatics funding , while celebrating the progress that has been made .
16 LAB MATTERS Winter 2024
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