DOH program-related tests such as Kato-Katz for schistosomiasis and malarial smear are part of which laboratory category?

DOH program-related tests such as Kato-Katz for schistosomiasis and malarial smear are part of which laboratory category?

• A. Primary Laboratory
• B. Secondary Laboratory
• C. Limited Laboratory
• D. Tertiary Laboratory

Answer: (C)

In DOH lab classifications, labs are grouped by how much testing they can reliably perform and the infrastructure required. Program-related tests like Kato-Katz for schistosomiasis and malarial smear are simple, low-cost procedures that are commonly done in field or district settings with basic microscopy and minimal specialized equipment. They’re used primarily for surveillance and mass screening rather than comprehensive clinical diagnostics, so they fit the Limited Laboratory category, which is designed for essential, program-specific tests carried out with limited facilities. By contrast, primary laboratories handle routine clinical screening at local centers, secondary laboratories have broader test menus and more equipment, and tertiary laboratories provide advanced, reference-level testing.

In DOH lab classifications, labs are grouped by how much testing they can reliably perform and the infrastructure required. Program-related tests like Kato-Katz for schistosomiasis and malarial smear are simple, low-cost procedures that are commonly done in field or district settings with basic microscopy and minimal specialized equipment. They’re used primarily for surveillance and mass screening rather than comprehensive clinical diagnostics, so they fit the Limited Laboratory category, which is designed for essential, program-specific tests carried out with limited facilities. By contrast, primary laboratories handle routine clinical screening at local centers, secondary laboratories have broader test menus and more equipment, and tertiary laboratories provide advanced, reference-level testing.