Not all microscopes are equal.
A functional microscope is the most important and most expensive piece of equipment required for smear microscopy. Global Fund monies have provided a unique opportunity to equip laboratories in low-resource countries, but these funds must be spent wisely. Cheap microscopes are superficially appealing. However, higher-quality microscopes generally have better optics and last longer. International agencies should consider establishing a purchasing service to assist countries in their microscope procurement. Such a system would provide quality assurance and increased purchasing power.
Lumb
R
R
Institute of Medical & Veterinary Science, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
Van Deun
A
A
Kelly
P
P
Bastian
I
I
D006801:Humans; D008853:Microscopy / Q000191:economics / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000592:standards*; D013183:Sputum / Q000166:cytology; D014397:Tuberculosis, Pulmonary / Q000473:pathology*