GHANA ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENTISTS (GAMLS) ANNUAL NATIONAL CONGRESS (ANC) 2020: A REPORT OF A REPORT

It was a brand new day, the skies were bright and streets just were just getting busy. All who could not make their journey to Sekondi-Takoradi, the only twin-city of Ghana, the day before we arriving in turns. It was the second day of the Annual National Congress (ANC) of the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (GAMLS) 2020 and activities were getting heated. Then from nowhere sprang an enthusiastic voice, a determined fellow I must say, with full vim and springing on some social media handles of the association with a claim to report Congress to members live from the congress grounds. These were his opening words:

” You may want to get a live update from Congress but not through Zoom…
Don’t look any further, as I bring you a live, interesting and captivating news and updates right from Congress grounds… subject to internet availability, good battery and reporter’s understanding/perception, which may not be a true reflection of actual facts – inasmuch as these biases will be limited as much as possible.
Stay tuned!
Your Congress Journalist (CJ),
Sampson Kafui Djonor (SKD)”

Hehehee! O yes! Sampson called himself GAMLS Congress Journalist (CJ) and some members thought those were one of the social media pranks at the beginning but to the surprise of many who never knew him, it was a self-motivated task he executed succinctly to the end with many accolades from the various platforms. Members from the platforms forwarded his posts to other sites platforms as much as possible. This write-up is geared towards bringing together these pieces of reports of our CJ, SKD for safe keeping and easy reference in the future. The following therefore were a true reflection of Congress as it occurred and was reported by SKD in real time.

It’s a beautiful morning and the Official Congress Opening Ceremony is just begun. It’s DAY 3 of Congress.

Invited Guests are getting seated.

The drumming and dancing group – Akwaaba Cultural Group (with expertise in all works of culture, able to move to all parts of the country, and with contact: 0202846083) just finished their wonderful drumming and dancing to welcome us.

Stay tuned😉

…and I say Good morning to you all live from Takoradi in the Western Region @ Akroma Plaza Hotel.

Chairman of Opening Ceremony – Rep of Nana Kwabena Nketsia V (Paramount Chief of Esikado)

Remarks:

1. Healthcare is essential and whichever part each and everyone is playing is very significant.

2. We have but ourselves and hence no one should not play politics with our health system. Thanks to you all for your contribution.

Welcome Address just delivered by

MLS Samuel Danquah (GAMLS Western Regional Chairman).

Special Address by GAMLS President MLS. Dr. Ignatius Abowini Awinibuno Nchor

FEW POINTS FROM SPECIAL ADDRESS OF GAMLS PRESIDENT

1. The theme for Congress 2020 is Building a Self -Reliant Healthcare Industry: Lessons from the COVID -19 Era

2. COVID -19 has taught us to think globally but act locally.

3. COVID-19 had provided a natural simulation or rehearsal of the future.

4. Government needs to Increase the country expenditure budget on health to 10%.

5. Government needs to consider establishing MLS Council, MLS Postgraduate College and Implementation of National Laboratory Policy Documents that have been approved several years ago. These are the only ways of expressing concerns and improvement of laboratory science in Ghana.

6. GAMLS needs a council to expand services for the people’s well-being and not for national ego, it will boost Ghana’s Healthcare System. It will catalyze Ghana’s Fiscal and Economic sector growth, among others.

7. When you see two adults of opposite sex wrestling on a bed, it’s not because they are fighting. It’s because they want to attain a great position of mutual interest and pleasure (Awinibuno, 2020). GAMLS is never fighting with government, ministry, or any professional body but to ensure everyone in the country is happy.

8. GAMLS is grateful to the minister of health, Prof. Nafiu Amidu, Dr. Sodoke Amuzu, government, etc for clearing some of our professionals, joining advocacy against quackery, inaugurating the AHPC board, placing some AHProfessionals on the Teaching Hospitals Board, etc.

9. Government should consider placing MLS. D professionals doing their housemanship on the SSSS but not give them ~Gh¢559.00.

10. GAMLS is grateful to all past executives of the association.

11. Some achievements of the administration were also highlighted.

12. GAMLS has a vision of being a great independent professional body and becoming a Professional Institute. So all are called onboard.

13. Thanks to members, sister institutions, and the media for your support in the various fights of GAMLS.

14. The administration wishes the upcoming executive board the best, and thanks to all supporters -both private and public, God and everyone for your support.

15. Being together, a minute of silence was observed for all the safely departed especially for the soul of the late Mr. Michael Amewonye (GAMLS Secretary).

KEY NOTE ADDRESS
by Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye , Hon Deputy Minister Health.

Few Points

1. One of the Most COVID -19 Protocol Compliant Functions in the COVID -19 Era – (Boye, 2020).

2. Thanks for the invite by GAMLS. Theme is very appropriate for the time.

3. He is confident Ghana will attain zero case of COVID-19 in the shortest possible time despite 347 active cases currently – a milestone chalked by the contribution of ML professionals among others.

4. It’s not wrong to have proposals because most of them if not all will see the light of day. So GAMLS should continue championing their grievances and all will be fulfilled in time.

5. The recruitment portal will be opened this month for application for cleared Scientists.

6. The ministry will continue to support training of MLS. D, postgraduate MLS and others for quality and excellent healthcare.

7. Government is committed to supporting manufacturing lab equipments, reagents, etc.

8. Government is grateful to all ML professionals for your immense contributions during the COVID 19 era and beyond and encourages the great work to continue.

9. He believes that all healthcare professionals are equal just like the Bible says all men are created equal. Hence everyone deserves the best.

SOLIDARITY

Address by medical Laboratory Professional Body from Togo

1. Health is a global issue hence requiring all professionals everywhere in the world to work hard in hand to attaining optimal health.

2. The Togo ML profession congratulates the Ghana and Nigeria profession for starting the WAPCMLS.

3. They wish GAMLS will in our congress and struggles.

Health Services Workers Union by Mrs. Pokua Addison

1. Presented a message of solidarity.

2. They agree to building an independent healthcare industry for our Country and is consistent with Ghana beyond aid agenda.

3. The work of several workers in the HSWU through their fight in the relatively poor healthcare system has brought about demand for better condition of service and they pray government will pay listening ear to their plea.

4. They take the opportunity to invite GAMLS to their upcoming conference and wishes GAMLS well.

Ghana Medical Association (GMA) represented by Dr. Duncan Nana Frimpong also expressed their solidarity.

AHPC represented by Hon MLS Dr. Prince Sodoke Amuzu expressed their solidarity as well.

Official Opening of Congress by the Hon Kwabena Okyere Darko -Mensah, the Western Regional Minister

1. Noted the zero active case of COVID -19 as at now with no recorded case in the last 24hrs in the Western Region.

2. “Truly decentralized self-reliant healthcare industry” is what is needed in our Country but not just a self-reliant one.

3. Government will continue to create more healthcare facilities. He encourages intensification of education and training and calls for better motivation for ML professionals to be able to deliver effectively.

4. Better roads, one constituency – one ambulance, and many others are some ways of achieving this theme.

5. He used the opportunity to express the tourist attraction sites, airport and the many other goodies of the western region, encouraged all to tour the region while we are around and to have a blessed made-in-Tardi congress.

6. With that, Congress was officially opened in the name of the Holy Trinity.

CHAIRMAN’S CLOSING REMARKS

1. GAMLS is very organized… Thumbs up and keep that up.

2. We should note the words of the Deputy Minister – “I will note the outcome of your deliberations and specially present that to the minister for action”. Hence with the support of members, GAMLS should get the best communique and present that personally to the D. Minister to keep his words.

3. Great work per his assessment of the current president. That presents more work for the incoming executives. The association should have a method of promoting/retaining good leadership even if it calls for amending the constitution of the profession.

Vote of Thanks delivered.

Congress Reconvenes…

Scientific Presentations ongoing

Presenting now is Dr. Laud Anthony Basing (FWAPCMLS) on the topic: Creating and Sustaining the Value Chain in Ghana’ Health Laboratory Industry

1. Securing a value chain requires the patient, specimen collection, testing and results transmission.

2. Patient is central in creating value chain. Do they have physical access to lab testing, is the service affordable? Is there no way of breaking lab to the doorstep of the people or getting it subsidized? Is there information on testing or laboratory services? Does the patient understand what the Laboratory is doing?

3. Specimen collection: Having three-tier lab system can help. Example: Instead of multiple venipuncture of client in different facilities, Patient can come to district lab, the lab takes the sample, run what they can and sends rest of sample to referral lab and get the results in the district for the patient. If private sectors are doing this, why can’t the public sector do that? As well, all consumables must be present.

Presentation by Dr. Basing

1. Testing: We need to increase the volume of tests we run in our labs. Improve turn-around-time, etc.

2. Results interpretation/dissemination. ML Professionals should start using all parts of the laboratory information system. Use the data you generate. Let’s not sit on the goldmine.

Challenges in Supply Chain
1. Presence in Africa. Some manufacturers do not have reps in all countries but regions. Let’s develop policy to maintain and patronize the ones we have in country.
2. After sales service.
3. Cost
4. Standardization and quality.

Creating and sustaining value chain:
1. Start local innovation. There should be funding of reagent production, etc.
2. Creating partnership. Let’s start thinking of the shared -lab system. Including contract manufacturing for the reagents we can hardly manufacture in our country.
3. Strengthening the existing supply chain. Let’s patronize local distributors.
4. There is the need for political will to get all the stated points materialized. Policies need to be formed and implemented, give manufacturing incentives, reducing tax etc.

Congress joins other presenters online in partnership with CelebrateLab Africa.

Other Members of the Online CelebrateLab Conference Team included:

1. Ernest Boasiako
2. Moderator Candace Eastman
3. Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan
4. Blessing Exanem
5. Dr. Issata Wurie
6. Mustapha (Sysmex, West and Central Africa)

Few Points raised included

1. ML professionals should always forecast to be able to stand the test of time irrespective of the challenges (Boasiako, 2020).

2. How do we draw people into the supply chain area – local innovation for the better? The sector is a bit expensive so the youth ML Professional is afraid to venture (Exanem, 2020). Creating incentives for professionals to patronize. Making the market look appealing and promising to solve a significant problem will motivate many scientists to venture the area (Basing, 2020).

3. Political will of our leaders to implement some of these policies. Government should give budgetary allocations for some of these areas. There is a lot of development and research in the developed world, in US and Europe, etc because they have sponsorship and funding (Nyan, 2020).

4. Quality management in area of supply and value chain deals with having proper storage, keeping inventory of reagents to prevent stock out, and ensuring timely servicing and maintenance of equipment among others (Exanem, 2020).

5. With standardization, ensure a good package when purchasing. What you’re purchasing should have servicing component, equipment maintenance component, etc. Standardization can be obtained by supporting local production, having inter sectoral collaboration such as linking with Universities and well established facilities, and having organisations such as WHO adding their voice. Standardization strongly depends on political will as well. Ensure that whatever you purchase is what you need, what you want and what you’re going to use and can use. (Wurie, 2020).

6. Quarterly Reagent delivery system of Sysmex prevents the manufacturing and distributing company from getting stock out even in the era of COVID-19 (Mustapha, 2020).

Scheme of Service – by Consultant for GAMLS

1. Since leadership cannot conjure tasks, functions of ML professionals are needed to get good placement and condition of service for members of the profession.

2. As such, data is being collected from all level of professionals from different facilities and regions using questionnaires.

3. Please take your time to complete it – Monday to Sunday, all cadre of professionals, what do you do in detail when you get to work? It’s only about a 2 page document.

4. Some facilities firms were sent to include Sogakope, Battor, Trust Hospital, Blood Bank, etc. Let’s do this excellently and timely.

Congress adjourned for lunch(The first was snack 🙈)

Congress reconvenes…

Presentation by Sysmex Led my Mr. Mustapha

1. Sysmex XN – 31 capable of diagnosing malaria and indicating even the level of parasitemia.

2. Sysmex Academy Online is offering several online training that all ML Professionals can patronize free of charge – with ISO Certified Certificates. It can help with CPD for license renewal. Interested members should send their names, email address and telephone numbers via mail to fosu.joseph@sysmex-wca.com

3. GAMLS officially entered into contract/partnership with Sysmex and MOU signed. Sysmex will sponsor all GAMLS CPD programmes across all regions, continue to support our Student activities and to collaborate with GAMLS on ventures. GAMLS in turn advertise them not because of any parochial interest but for the good our customers as Sysmex is innovative and of high quality.

4. Mindray shared Calendars during the signing of the MOU (I guess business tactics to divert attention 😄😄😄🙈🙊).

ELECTORAL COMMISSION just finished stipulating modalities for Election.

1. Election will be by electronic voting.

2. Election will be from 7am to 4pm on Friday, 16th October.

3. Results will be delivered/announced 1hr after voting.

4. Winning a position is by simple majority.

5. In any situation where there is a tire, Congress gave EC the power to decide…and EC and Congress agreed on breaking that tire within 24hrs with an appropriate defined modality.

6. The right to vote is being given to all who registered before 18:00GMT on Tuesday, 14th October, 2020.

Delivery of Policies by Aspirants

1. Each participant had 5min to deliver.

2. Appearance was by voting. Dr. Abu Abudu Rahamani delivered first on ticket of the presidency.

3. His points included:
a. Resource Mobilization to get funds – such as using commercial vehicle
b. Looking at the future but not the present
c. Delegates should believe in assertiveness among other qualities of his and vote him.

4. Mr. Nii Amartey Amarh told the podium. He touched on:
I/. Lack of a council.
II/. Lack of bargaining power
III/. Membership mobilization using example of GAMLS ATUU
IV. To bring onboard operation nobody knows tomorrow.

ASPIRANTS COMMUNICATING POLICIES

Veep Aspirant Mr. Robert K. Adedze -Kpodo presented on 11 different avenues to champion for GAMLS when given the nod.

He calls on all to vote for Pragmatic and fearless leader to continue the VEEP mandate. He was unopposed.

MLS Dr. Eric Asante mounted the podium. for the General Secretary position.
1. He brings onboard mission of hope. He will do this by empowerment.
2. Training and Delegating tasks to go far.
3. Monitoring and fixing the broken system by synchronizing all the regional secretariats.
4. Getting ID Cards for members to distinguish us from others and supplying souvenirs for members.
5. He is passionate about the position and his background speaks a lot for him in that regard.

Mr. Solomon Quarshie for General Secretary position :
1. Ability to report on proceedings of the association. He is dedicated.
2. Have been onboard the association for a very long time and understands the issues.
3. Proposing an oath for the profession. He believes in the law of attraction. Professing and getting that.
4. Boost data management of association.
5. Build association website and keep it up to date as a site depicting scientific mission of the group. It can generate income.
6. He loves education and will advocate for the postgraduate fellowship programme as well as institute a provident fund.

Jennifer Adoley Baffoe as unopposed Financial Secretary Aspirant
1. To ensure income generation and resource mobilization. To establish purified water company.
2. Transparency and accountability will be hallmarks of her administration.
3. Implementing retirement package for members.
4. Cut down cost on CPD if not get them entirely free.
5. Establish well viable insurance scheme and revamp the credit union.
6. She is serviceable.

Questions and answers ongoing.

ASPIRANTS CLOSING REMARKS

1. She believes leadership is the legacy of the people. Vote to endorse Jennifer as your next Financial Secretary.

2. He believes in moving forward. Vote for MLS Dr. Eric Asante as your General Secretary for the next GAMLS administration.

3. Solomon believes the Executive have done well and so they (next admin) will continue from where they set off. Vote for him, a dedicated fellow and you won’t regret it. Vote Solo as your next General Secretary.

4. He has been part of the outgoing team. Vote for him to continue what has been started. Vote Mr. Adedze-Kpodo as your VEEP to continue a great work.

5. Continuity is key… So he will put systems in place to ensure GAMLS reach the highest standard ever with his experience. Vote for Dr. Abu as your next president.

6. What GAMLS need is advocacy. He is the man clothed for that. He comes with a realistic dream. Vote Franklin as your next president.

President, MLS Dr. Awinibubo gave closing remarks, prayer was said and Congress adjourned till tomorrow.

DAY 4 Just Started.

MLS Allorsey just said the opening prayer.

Some presenters will be joining via online.

Chairman of Session: Professor Nafiu Amidu
Dean of School of Allied Health Sciences, UDS. President of WAPCMLS
Head of Lab Department, TTH.

DAY 4 – 1st Presentation.

Topic: The One Health Approach to COVID -19 Testing: Collaboration between Veterinary Laboratory and Public Health Laboratory, Takoradi

Presenter: MLS EBENEZER KOFI MENSAH (Deputy Chief MLS, MPhil Field Epid)

Few Points
1. One health is essential. It encompasses the health of humans, animals, plants and the environment.

2. Professionals in human, animal, plant and environmental health all need to come together, collaborate and coordinate for excellent health. This is very important in era of emerging infectious diseases such as COVID-19.

3. There is Veterinary Lab at Takoradi (P2 and P3 Labs) built by the Canadian Government with supper of WHO some years back being utilized now for COVID -19 Testing. Aim is to test for COVID-19 and other molecular testing for epidemic prone diseases.

4. Sick animals can transmit infection to you. You will be surprised Dogs are having Type 1 and 2 Diabetes, COVID-19, etc.

5. Since May, the department has tested 8,672 samples of which 1,693 are positive (19.5% prevalence).

6. Department started with pooled testing and has now progressed to individualized testing. There are isolation centres and effective management team for the positive cases.

7. So far, there had been good collaboration between public health laboratory, government, veterinary service, etc.

SCIENTIFIC FORUM PART 1 – CONGRESS DAY 4

2nd Presentation

Presenter: MLS Bernard Nkrumah (FWAPCMLS, MPhil Microbiology, MPH) Global Health Security Technical Advisor, US CDC

Topic: Sample Referral System and Digitization of the Medical Laboratory: Lessons from the COVID -19 Pandemic in Ghana

Few Points
1. COVID -19 cases, from inception on 12th March, moved exponentially and so fast and swift that several professionals and control measures were needed within a twinkle of an eye.

2. Notably, the contact tracing system implemented was a responsible factor for the rise among others. Resources were needed for transport and Mobilization. Delay in results dissemination for even up to 2 months was experienced.

3. The pandemic has proven that data is very essential. Information needed for effective sample running, results for patients management, data for research and surveillance. We must ensure data availability and accuracy to appropriate authorities in timely manner. Data must be consistent and our data solution must evolve to meet the requirements of the time.

4. Digital innovation has become the order of day. People worked online and so more demand for data was seen. There was online shopping, MoMo services, online payments, telemedicine, etc.

5. Laboratory professionals need to maximize LIS expansion (re-purpose or programme, automatic results reporting via mails, etc), linking laboratory analyzers and tests to LIS, and getting centralized lab data repository and transmission, etc.

6. Digitization/technology is good owing to increase number of test within the shortest possible time, paper based system are inefficient,

7. Use if Laboratory Information (Management) System – LIS/LIMS
a. Reduces transcription errors
b. Improves TAT
c. Improve quality standards
d. Improves patients outcome and public health.
e. Makes billing easier. Note that laboratory is serious business. Let’s track our financial progress. If you know how much you’re generating, you can bargain and prove your profitability to your management. Don’t be deceived that the laboratory is not generating.

8. Sample referral system – why is it important? It involves setting up system to move samples from one point to another for testing. You can use either manual or electronic system or both. It reduces cost.

9. The laboratory clientele is getting complex requiring more consistent and quality results. No lab can do all tests. The era calls for innovation by the medical laboratory scientist to fit in the market or risk fading out.

SCIENTIFIC FORUM PART 1 – CONGRESS DAY 4

3rd Presentation

Presenter: MLS Dr. Michael Owusu (PhD Corona Viruses, Lecturer, KNUST)

Topic: The Microbiome of Nasopharynx before and during COVID-19 Pandemic in Ghana

Few Points
1. His team investigated the profile of Microbiome in the respiratory tract of HIV positive children against negative cases.

2. Number of viruses in individuals with pneumonia were found to be relatively higher compared to those without pneumonia in both HIV positives and negatives. Adenoviruses, HBV, rhinoviruses, etc. were detected.

3. Bacterial isolation was high in people with pneumonia compared to those without in both HIV positives and negatives. Organisms include Klebsiella, Strep, staph, etc.

4. There is no clear pattern in viral or bacteria isolates in the era of COVID -19. However, data is showing that bacterial diversity (strain distribution) could contribute to the low pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 in Ghana aside the genetic diversity proposed.

5. Though there have been some mutations in the African gene in relation to SARS-COV-2, this mutation can hardly explain the low mortality of the pandemic in Africa. More research needed.

SCIENTIFIC FORUM PART 1 – CONGRESS DAY 4

Presentation by DCL. Bryan Wankpo-Sonom (Sales and Clinical Application Specialist, Africa and West African Region).

1. ISO 9001-2015 company with offices in Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, etc.

2. Have Chemistry Analyzers, Haematology Analyzers, PCR Solutions, Medical Imaging Solutions (MRI, CT Scan, Ultrasound machine, etc.)

3. PCR Solution offered by Qiagen. They have fully automatic Gene Xpert Systems with available kits.

4. Have great warranty terms. Have after sales service and training for all customers.

SCIENTIFIC FORUM PART 1 – CONGRESS DAY 4

Presentation by DiagnoMedics Limited. KWAME HARRY ADI (Customer and Application Specialist, DiagnoMedics)

1. Germany based. Important among their services include running EQA offered by European Society for External Quality Assessment (ESfEQA). The company sorely deals in this and hence committed. .

2. EQA allows you to test samples brought to you like a normal patient case and see how best you’re performing as a laboratory. The true value will be shared, and results from other facilities that took part to know where you stand in comparison with others.

3. Facility will be certified for participating and certified for any analyte passed.

4. Number of Assessment per year (monthly, bimonthly, quarterly or yearly) is dependent on the facility.

5. Cost effective eg. 900gh for complete chemistry survey/run. Facility can submit as many as 3 results meaning about 3 analyzers can be used and report received for all of them.

4. Register and get more details. Samples are shipped to you, results sent for later comparison with international partners using equal methods. Recommend for all. Reach Harry on 0202532951 for more details and registration.

Citation Presentations made to
1. Dr. Lawrence Quaye

2. Prof. Gabriel Ayew Tei
&
3. Prof. Nafiu Amidu

all for their diverse contributions to the profession and especially for initiating and continuing the training of MLS.D programme in UDS.

As well, a bilateral agreement (renewable 5years) and officially commencing way back in 2018 was signed by both GAMLS and Togo MLS Profession.

CONGRESS RECONVENES

PRESENTATION ON THE ONGOING GAMLS SECRETARIAT AND AUDITORIUM PROJECT by Eng. Baffour Osei, GHS Housing Limited

1. His presentation, he said, is a followup on one done at Jirapa about a yr ago.

2. Work started in 2007 occupying 12 plots and will be capable of taking 625 seats. Soundproof auditorium.

3. Ground floor will have offices with auditorium. Top storey having about 4 bedrooms.

4. Current state, Targeting phase 1 completion will help start usage. Phase 2 will be completion of 1st and 2nd floors.

5. Total Projected Project Cost – Gh¢1,524,547.74

6. He recommends a committee be set sorely for this project to prevent interruptions in change in administration.

SCIENTIFIC FORUM PART 1 – CONGRESS DAY 4

Chairman : Dr. Benjamin Tetteh Mensah Deputy Chief MLS, Fellow of WAPCMLS and Chairman of Ghana the Chapter, MPhil Haematology, PhD Public Health

Topic: A Molecular Point-of-Care diagnostic for Treponema pallidum subspecies petunue (Yaws).

Presenter: Dr. Laud Anthony Basing (FWAPCMLS, PhD)

1. Yaws seem like a forgotten disease. Starts with a pipilloma and if not cared for, can lead to serious deformities. It can be treated by single dose of Azitromycin. Yaws required elimination from Ghana as at 2012.

2. Clinical diagnosis of yaws is difficult. Culture can hardly detect it. PCR is sensitive but can be tested only in reference labs though yaws is a disease of poverty.

3. Target was to develop molecular diagnostic tool for yaws that is capable of being used on the field.

4. Developed assay can detect 2 – 20 tests per hour. Specificity 96% and 100% sensitivity.

SCIENTIFIC FORUM PART 2 – CONGRESS DAY 4

Update from Clinical Laboratory Unit/Team = CLU-ICD, GHS by William Mills-Pappoe (Chief MLS, GHS, FWAPCMLS)

1. COVID -19 had presented a great havoc stressing the need of ML Professionals in Ghana among others to prevent collapse of health systems.

2. Activities done by the CLU
a. Trained 7 regions in Southern sector but not enough funds to do the northern sector training. Training involved sample collection, packaging and transport.
b. Development of COVID -19 National Preparedness Strategy Plan.
c. Developed concept note for needs assessment of 16 regional hospitals and labs for diagnosis of COVID -19.
d. Formation of technical working group to develop guidelines for COVID -19 diagnosis. Training done in August and a draft formed.
e. Training of reps from all regions on guidelines to commence soon in November.
f. Healthcare workers trained on IPC.

3. Let’s all note that health threat anywhere is a health threat everywhere (Mills-Pappoe, 2020)

SCIENTIFIC FORUM PART 2

Topic: 21st Century Healthcare Practice : Promoting Collaboration and Control

Presenter: Dr. Godswill Chikwe Okara (Registrar and Fellow WAPCMLS)

1. 21st Century = Current information age or computer age is where knowledge and ideas are the main sources of development.

2. A categories of the abilities needed to succeeds in 21st Century :
A) 4Cs
a. Critical Thinking (going outside the box
b. Collaborating
c. Creativity
d. Communication

B) Life skills
C) Information Technology skills

3. Also multi- professional practice is needed. However, to remain relevant as ML professionals, you need to imbibe the spirit of new technology and Continuous Prof. education to constantly upgrade the standard of practice. Or you become obsolete.

4. “The world is connected now that No one is safe until everyone is safe”. The need to train specialist MLS is prudent hence all should embrace the WAPCMLS

5. There should be cross-fertilization of ideas among professions. Physicians, nurses, pharmacists, etc. and MLSs should collaborate for complete and better health. We should encourage training among all groups and embrace interprofessional education.

6. Collaboration is working together to achieve a common purpose. Whiles control speaks of the power to run something in an orderly way. Combining both will help attain the vision of good health for the public.

7. Lab professionals should develop unquenchable thirst and hunger for new knowledge and skill in their area of practice. You should not relax for good where there is better. Aim for wherever there is a will, there is a way.

SCIENTIFIC FORUM PART 2

Topic: Immunological Presentation in COVID-19 Patients – It’s Impact and Management

Presenter: Dr. Dennis Adu-Gyasi (FWAPCMLS, Immunology, PhD)

1. Findings are showing that any form of polymorhism in any classes of Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) are likely to be susceptible or offer protection against COVID-19.

2. HLA-B & HLA-Dr have been found to give susceptibility while HLA-A gives protection.

3. Note that COVID -19 is intracellular. Some studies are even proposing that IgG can show in some cases before the IgM. IgM usually should start from day 1 whiles IgG shows later and peaks around day 21 of infection.

4. Overwhelmed viral infection leads to production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by class 1 T-cells that finally attack the bodies own system like an auto immune response. A situation called Cytokine Storm. This can be deadly.

5. Also is the Bradykinin storm – a dysfunction that cause the vascular system to leak.

6. Drugs to COVID are given with knowledge of any heart condition history of patient.

7. Labs should be focusing in
a. Cytokine
b. HLA Typing
c. Antibody Testing and Profiling
d. Flow cytometry (CD4, CD8, APCs)

8. There are 6 different strains of SARS-CoV-2 currently. Most probably the least harmful strain is what we have in Ghana now hence reduced death rate.

9. Research is suggesting that IgG/M does not stay in the body after 6 months.

Congress Adjourned for Lunch…

Good Afternoon…

Live from GAMLS CONGRESS 2020 GROUNDS

…EC about to release voting results

1. Election was successful mostly because there was a fair system.

2. There was no issue of fraud.

3. Challenge. Delay in releasing Voters’ Register nearly resulted in agitation from some aspirants/pooling agents. Subsequently, email address will be validated to prevent any attempt of double voting.

4. Validation done successfully.

5. 317 ballots were sent. 293 votes were cast (92% turn-up). 8 slots were available.

ELECTION RESULTS

President :
1. Dr. Abu Abudu Rahamani – 65%
2. Franklin Amartey Armah – 35%

Veep
Mr. Robert Adedze-Kpodo – 99%

General Secretary:
Dr. Eric Asante – 16%
Mr. Solomon D. Kwashie – 84.%

Fin. Sec.
Jennifer Adoley – 98%

SHORT MESSAGES

1. Election always has 2 outcomes. But the power of the people remains supreme. ” Selecting Dr. Rahamani means GAMLS members are saying its not my time. Thanks to all who voted for me. This is not the time to sit on the fence because you supported Franklin who didn’t win. Come onboard to make GAMLS the best”. (Amartey, 2020)

2. It is not “the losing team” as the EC may say it because no one has lost. GAMLS has won. And so he will avail himself anytime anywhere to work with Br. Solomon to make GAMLS great (Asante, 2020).

3. Done well Franklin for a wonderful speech. Prepare and come back later. First time for GAMLS having E-voting which he didn’t initially believe is possible. Good work to IT, EC and all involved. It’s first time to have congress with international speakers participating from the comfort of their homes. Nice one. Long live GAMLS. (Amuzu, 2020).

President, Dr. Ignatius Abowini Awinibuno Nchor thanked all for their support and participation, wished well all newly elected executives and Adjourned Congress for dinner later in the evening.

It had been Your Congress Journalist,

I take this opportunity to apologize for now covering live, the Dinner and Awards Night Ceremony last night. I had to keep the battery at that 5% to be able to tackle urgent calls.😉

So aside the sumptuous meals, there were some few awards/citations issued to very deserving personalities according to the GAMLS Awards Committee.

_Notable among them included:_
1. Best MLS of the year (an award the committee was indecisive about amongst the 3 selected finals. Even congress was at a crossroad on any single individual). 3 personalities were independently given the award as Co-Winners. Meet:
a. MLS Dr. Laud Anthony Basing
b. MLS Dr. Dennis Adu-Gyasi
c. MLS Dr. Ignatius Abowini Nchor Awinibuno

2. National Best Laboratory in Ghana 2020
a. Upper East (Bolgatanga) Regional Hospital (only facility still strongly adhering to SLMTA) – Public
b. Paradise Diagnostic Centre in Accra (all 18 MLSs hold BSc. & registered with GAMLS, in good standing and adhering to all standards) – Private

3. Awards/Citations to all members of NEC, National Executive Officers (NEO) and GAMLS National Committees.

4. Award to Mr. Thomas Gyampoma for his numerous contributions in GAMLS

5. MLS Amati for his unflinching support and participation in GAMLS in the Northern Sector, Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions, and for being a consistent Congress Participant even whiles on retirement.

6. Best GAMLS Students Awards based on GPA and being in good standing with GAMLS.
a. Female from Koforidua Technical University – Ms Chrisbella Tiwaa Nkansah
b. Male from UHAS – Mr. Rexford Amissah

7. GAMLS Women Wing Awards to deserving members.

8. Best Performing GAMLS Regional Branch 2020 – VOLTA REGION

9. Best Entrepreneur 2020
MLS Dr. Laud Anthony Basing

LAST DAY OF CONGRESS

Congress Reconvenes

President’s Opening Address

1. All committees of GAMLS have been officially dissolved. As such, all members on external regional platforms as communication team members, etc. can and should be taken off by the appropriate authorities.

2. GAMLS has constitution and procedures in place. There were some occasions members resort to communicate using social media instead of using the approved or more official means. The current leadership was liberal on some issues instead of taking them to disciplinary committee. All members should note this and act accordingly subsequently.

3. Mr. Jacob Akuetteh Armah will be on the transitional committee together with 2 members each of outgoing and incoming executives for smooth transition.

4. NEC members on congress grounds will be sworn in whiles those not present will be sworn in later at the next NEC meeting.

5. There is the need to put in place a clear guidance as how National Executives are to be treated. They should be insured and some modalities to cater for them in circumstances of shock be put in place; or even give some incentives/improve wardrobe, etc.

6. The MELPWU has come to stay. Let’s support it. This is the only profession we’ve got. Let’s be ambassadors of this profession. Don’t ask now what do I have to gain? Contribute your quota to make our profession the best ever we wanted. Let’s not subject ourselves under the authority of any amorphous body but form ourselves and be champions of our own cause. In unity and synergy is strength. Please note that we are not at loggerheads with any other professional body or union but fighting a common enemy – poverty. Those who hold various positions in even HSWU should support MELPWU for the best. Fill the form and register at no cost.

Some leaders of the Union present included:
a. Cephas Kofi Acortor – General Secretary
b. Prosper Senyo Sokpe
c. Patrick Nsobilia A.

7. There’s a process of registering a union for the Private Sector as well. Together and gradually, we’ll get there.

8. Welfare Policy Document has been approved. Professional Policy Document has been developed and approved pending gazetting. Let’s make good use of them.

Congress Reconvenes

CONGRESS EVALUATION

1. Best congress attended so far. However it seemed Congress was too packed leaving no enough room for socialization – a necessary factor.

2. Professionals and organizers should be a bit more time conscious in the future. This will have ensured that all programmes occurred as plan with rooms for socialization.

3. Unlike Jirapa, there was no room for site seeing this time which isn’t the best and can be improved upon subsequently.

4. Adding and issuing GAMLS souvenirs such as Labcoat, Lacoste, etc. at congress.

5. The reality is that expenditure of GAMLS Congress has always been approximately 3 times the income from Congress. Hiring of auditoriums, per diem/fuel for presenters/invited guests, paying correspondence fees eg. for executives playing key role in congress, etc. drains the association. Usually, the association takes about 3 -6 months post congress to clear this debt.

In some professional bodies like Pharmacy Council, all members are deducted congress fee so are mandated to attend. But that can hardly be possible in GAMLS where only ~ 30% registered members pay dues. Let’s all try to pay our dues (Awinibuno, 2020).

ONGOING – GAMLS COMMUNIQUE FROM ANC

Message from Torgbuiga Ashiakpor VI (MLS)

1. Every member of GAMLS has a role to play in ensuring the association moves forward. Engage all members from all sectors as much as possible.

2. New leadership should know that “if you’re leading and there’s no one behind you, it means you’re only taking a walk” . So involve all in the race.

CLOSING CEREMONY

1. Upper East (UE) will host next congress because According UE Chairman Adongo they have a research lab, their numbers have grown though not enough, the region is a center of hospitality, and had nice tourist attraction sites. Hosting next Congress in the region will boost the morale of the profession and enhance practice in the region.

2. Congress Local Organizing Committee thanked all members for their support and cooperation towards a successful programme.

3. GAMLS appreciate everyone and wishes all safe journey.

4. Rev. MLS Mrs. Alberta Larbi led the closing prayer.

5. Words of Outgone President : Thanked God for the guidance and protection throughout administration and everyone for your support.

6. In the absence of any further deliberations, MLS Mrs. Shiela Allotey moved for dissolution of Congress till the next Congress in 2021.

CONGRESS DISSOLVED By GAMLS President MLS Dr. Abu Abudu Rahamani at 12:50GMT.

Members to take their Brunch and depart.

Composition of NEC : 2020-2022 and Swearing In Ceremony

Presided over by Rev. MLS Jacob Akuetteh Armah

Regional Chairpersons
1. MLS Eric Kofi Aidoo – Ashanti Region
2. MLS Theophilus Quaye – Savanna Region
3. MLS Dr. Eric M. Bawa – North East
4. Reuben Seyram A. – Oti
5. Kenneth Owusu Agyemang Jnr – Volta
6. Kwame Kyei Amoah – Western North
7. Solomon Asante Sefa – Western
8. Paul Ntiamoah – Ahafo
9. Mark Darkwah – Bono
10. Moses Kofi Woli – Bono East
11. Emmanuel Adongo – Upper East
12. John T. Mensah -Greater Accra
13. Samuel Amoah – Central
14. Gyasi Razak – Northern
15. MLS Samuel Appiah – Eastern
16. Gameli E. Adzraku – Upper West

By Constitution are NEC Members
1. Chairperson of Women’s Wing – MLS Mrs. Sheila Allottey
2. APML – MLS Dr. Alexander Martin -Odoom
3. CLU, GHS Rep – MLS Dr. Mills-Pappoe
4. Board member AHPC – Hon MLS Dr. Prince S. Amuzu
5. New Public Relations Officer
6. Academia Rep

Outgone Executive
1. MLS Dr. Ignatius A. N. Awinibuno
2. MLS Michael Omari
3. MLS Abdul-Latif

NEO
1. MLS Jennifer Adoley Baffoe (Fin Sec.)
2. MLS Solomon Quarshie (CEO of GAMLS – Gen Sec. )
3. MLS Adedze-Kpodo (VEEP)
4. MLS Dr. Abu Abudu Rahamani (President of GAMLS, Chairman of NEC)

NEW PRESIDENT PRESIDING OVER CONGRESS – AFTER GIVING ACCEPTANCE SPEECH

It has been an honour reporting to you live from Secondi -Takoradi (the twin-city) on issues regarding GAMLS CONGRESS 2020

I dreamt of bringing Congress to your doorstep even if you were not able to make it to congress, could not log-on live, or could not take minutes for whatever reason. Your reading and warm reception have been my motivation; and I am glad it’s a dream come true.

Thank you for indulging me.

GAMLS Congress 2020 was a great success and that was how SKD reported it. Apparently, he’s an astute member of the Greater Accra Regional GAMLS with several years of professional experience and a Masters in Public Health. Many believe that these are some talents the association should push for greater exploits but… We shall get there. I will like to take this opportunity to encourage as many young professionals out there to exhibit what they have and can do like SKD. We want to see more of our professionals write, be innovative and get out of their comfort zones among others to bring about the change we seek. It’s only through these that doors of opportunities open. Like Mariam Williamson once said;
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. We ask ourselves, who am I to be beautiful, talented, gorgeous, fabulous. Actually who are we not to be… as we let our lights shine, we give others permission to do the same”.

My name remains Sampson Kafui Djonor (SKD) and I have been your Congress Journalist (CJ)

Till we meet again, here I am, signing off😊🙏🏽

Cheers 🍹🍹🍹