After being analyzed in three different laboratories Lilit Minasyan /the name is changed/ was presented with three different diagnoses.
"The analysis findings of two laboratories found certain amounts of protein in the urine. After purchasing the medicine prescribed by the doctor I underwent a course of treatment. A protein urine test in a third laboratory dashed away all my concerns finding no protein in the urine sample. It means I received wrong treatment and squandered my money. Who is to bear responsibility of the physical and financial harm inflicted on me?" says Lilit Minasyan.
Lilit is not an exception. Once you walk in a hospital corridor, you will hear people complaining of the same phenomenon.
They give analyses paying great sums but they are uncertain whether the right diagnosis will be made or not.
"I have come across similar cases during my practice. A commission has been set up to cope with the problem. Whenever a lab stumbles in its activities we take corresponding measures," Tamara Galstyan, chief specialist of the RA Ministry of Health, told A1+.
She explains the inconsistency of test results by objective and subjective factors. Tamara Galstyan notes that in certain cases the patient might unwillingly become "a source of mistake:" one must take into consideration the time of analysis delivery, the degree of the patient's physical exertion and whether he/she is hungry or full. Among objective factor Mrs. Galstyan pointed out equipment and reagents.
In order to monitor laboratory examinations the Ministry of Health is developing a "quality assurance program," which will provide an opportunity to assess the accuracy of tests.
The ministry representative urges all citizens encountering similar problems to turn to the ministry. "A group of specialists will address the matter after a thorough study of analysis findings."
