Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan plans to establish centralized laboratories to provide medical laboratory services to clinics, enhancing the quality and efficiency of disease diagnosis within the primary healthcare system. Laboratory diagnostics play a crucial role in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Starting from 1 January 2025, a project will be launched to create centralized laboratories serving primary healthcare facilities.

The pilot regions selected for the project include the city of Nukus in the Republic of Karakalpakstan, Bayaut District in Syrdarya Region, and Yashnabad District in Tashkent City.

Currently, laboratory technicians from these regions are undergoing training at the Tashkent City Medical Consultation and Diagnostic Center. They are honing their skills using modern equipment and learning from experienced specialists.

One of the project’s goals is to improve the quality of laboratory testing. In many clinics across the country, equipment and consumables are outdated or insufficient. There have also been instances where test results from local clinics were questioned by specialists, necessitating retesting at other facilities.

This initiative aims to address these challenges, reduce unnecessary expenses, and enhance patient convenience.

In the pilot regions, sample collection points will be established, and biological samples will be transported to centralized laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Tests will be conducted using high-quality equipment, ensuring precise results and eliminating additional burdens for patients.

Laboratory test results will be shared with clinics via an electronic information system and automatically entered into the patient's electronic health record. If further specialized treatment is required, results will also be accessible through this system.

Under the project, centralized laboratory services will be provided based on referrals as part of the guaranteed healthcare package. All diagnostic costs will be covered by the State Medical Insurance Fund.

The primary benefit of this initiative is that even residents of remote areas can submit tests at their local clinics, confident in receiving high-quality results and effective treatment.