Ouagadougou: The Burkinabe Agency for Standardization, Metrology and Quality (ABNORM) launched a week-long initiative on Monday, offering free verification and calibration of certain biomedical instruments to enhance the quality of care in health facilities.

According to Burkina Information Agency, ABNORM Director General Abraham Somda announced the commencement of this initiative on May 19, 2025, targeting the verification and calibration of instruments such as scales, blood pressure monitors, and thermometers used in health centers. This initiative is part of the events leading up to World Metrology Day, which is celebrated annually on May 20.

Director General Somda emphasized the global theme, "Measurement for all times and for all peoples," underlining the universal importance of measurement systems and their critical role in improving quality of life worldwide. He highlighted that Burkina Faso's celebration focuses on promoting metrology in health, given its significance in health diagnostics.

Somda reiterated ABNORM's dedication to providing accessible and reliable metrology that supports the daily lives of Burkinabe citizens. He explained that metrology, the science of measurement, involves various parameters such as weight, volume, distance, pressure, and temperature.

Dr. Felicite Nana, Director of Health Care Quality, praised ABNORM's efforts, noting that the initiative will enhance the quality of care for the Burkinabe population. Dr. Nana stressed the importance of reliable measuring instruments in making accurate diagnoses and adjusting treatments, emphasizing how calibration can improve therapeutic and diagnostic decisions.

Dr. Nana expressed gratitude to ABNORM and encouraged health facilities to participate in this process. She urged stakeholders in the Ministry of Health and healthcare facilities to prioritize metrology as a fundamental component of healthcare provision.

Dr. Doris Ouoba, promoter of the Et clinic, underscored the necessity of meeting standards for equipment used to measure temperature, weight, and height to ensure quality care. She noted that accurate measurements are crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment adaptation, praising ABNORM's initiative as a beneficial move.

The verification of health measuring instruments is scheduled to run from May 19 to 23, 2025.