Strengthening molecular testing capacity in Colombia: Challenges and opportunities

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated efforts to enhance pathogen detection using molecular biology techniques. This study examines the expansion of molecular testing capacity in Colombia, identifying strengths and areas for improvement in the existing infrastructure. The study began with the creation of a database inventorying laboratories based on publicly available data from government entities and active web searches. Ten laboratories were selected for detailed characterization. Structured surveys assessed their testing capacity and progress in implementing molecular-based diagnostic tests for various infectious diseases. The strategy for identifying laboratories showed a total of 311 laboratories. Of these, 65 % (n = 202) are private and 21 % (n = 65) are state-owned, mainly public health laboratories, and the remaining 14 % (n = 44) are affiliated with academic institutions. The highest concentration of these labs is in Bogotá, Antioquia, and Valle del Cauca, primarily in urban areas. Key limitations affecting testing laboratories in Colombia include: i) infrastructure (26.2 %), highlighting the need for standardized facility guidelines; ii) quality and documentation (16.7 %), requiring stronger quality management systems; iii) biosafety (14.3 %), emphasizing the need for continuous waste management, especially in public labs; and iv) human talent (10.7 %), needing better policies for staff retention, particularly in government institutions. Strengthening laboratories can establish a comprehensive national molecular testing system. Integrating molecular tests into health system diagnostic algorithms and implementing sustainable laboratory strategies will address human health challenges and support the "One Health" approach for animal and environmental health.