Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2021
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Corruption is a widely acknowledged problem in the health sector of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Yet, little is known about the types of corruption that affect the delivery of pathology and laboratory medicine (PALM) services. This review is a first step at examine PALM corruption risks.
METHODS
We performed a critical review of medical literature focused on health sector corruption in LMICs. To provide context, we categorized cases of lab-related fraud and abuse in the U.S.
RESULTS
Forms of corruption in LMICs that may impact the provision of PALM services include informal payments, absenteeism, theft and diversion, kickbacks, self-referral, and fraudulent billing.
CONCLUSIONS
Corruption represents a functional reality in many LMICs and hinders the delivery of services and distribution of resources to which individuals and entities are legally entitled. Further study is needed to estimate the extent of corruption in PALM and develop appropriate anti-corruption strategies.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcp/aqab046
ORCID
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6968-7002
Recommended Citation
Glynn, Emily H. MD; Amukele, Timothy; and Vian, Taryn, "Corruption: An impediment to delivering pathology and laboratory services in resource-limited settings" (2021). Nursing and Health Professions Faculty Research and Publications. 153.
https://repository.usfca.edu/nursing_fac/153
Included in
Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment Commons, Clinical Epidemiology Commons, Criminology and Criminal Justice Commons, International Public Health Commons, Social Justice Commons
