The significance of health screening is being progressively more recognized and many health screening centers are being set up fr this purpose.

But faced with the many choices available, how does one choose an appropriate center with confidence?

Japan is by far the most well developed country in health screening. The Japan Multi-phasic Health Testing Services has set certain standards for the recognition of good health screening centers, and coupled with MJ’s 10 years experience in running the Taiwan centers, the following criteria are provided as guidelines:

1. Excellent Equipment Facilities
The accuracy of tests depends greatly on the quality of equipment facilities. An automated screening process would greatly diminish inaccuracies caused by human errors.

2. Qualified Professional Staff
A good center should only employ qualified staff such as nurses, biochemists, radiographers and dietitians. Qualified, experienced doctors are especially important to detect abnormalities in otherwise healthy individuals.

3. Good Quality Control
Modern screening relies heavily on sensitive technology, therefore good equipment control and maintenance are of paramount importance to ensure the accuracy of screening results.

Good internal and external quality control measures are fundamental for the biochemistry laboratory, and it wold be even better to obtain certification from world recognized quality assessment organizations such as the CAP (College of American Pathologists).

Regular equipment servicing and well-kept maintenance records are mandatory for good laboratory management.

4. Comprehensive Follow Up Service
Health promotion starts with health screening. A comprehensive health screening programme should include follow up services such as health counseling, dietetic counseling and medical referrals, etc. Appropriate health consultations would assist the individual to plan specific health strategies and put the screening results into effective use.

5. Comprehensive Information Management System
All clients’ health information should be properly compiled and stored in sequence. This would provide doctors with information on changes in the health condition and plan appropriate health strategies accordingly.