TITLE:
Knowledge on Clinical Laboratory Reference Intervals among Healthcare Professionals at the Health District of Bamenda, Cameroon: Associated Factors and Predictors
AUTHORS:
Victor N. Fondoh, Loveline L. Niba, Mary B. Atanga
KEYWORDS:
Clinical Laboratory Reference Intervals, Level of Knowledge, Healthcare Professional, Health Districts of Bamenda, Factors, Association, Predictors
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.14 No.4,
April
30,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: Clinical laboratory reference intervals (CLRIs) are essential for accurate interpretation of test results, but they differ across populations. Using transferred CLRIs improperly due to limited knowledge among healthcare professionals (HCPs) may lead to misdiagnosis. This study assessed the factors and identified the predictors of the level of knowledge (LOK) regarding CLRIs among HCPs in the Health Districts of Bamenda, Cameroon. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study that involved 314 HCPs, aged 18 years and above. Chi-square and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to assess the factors and identify independent predictors of LOK, respectively. p ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The proportion of HCPs with adequate LOK on CLRIs was 35%. Our univariable analysis shows that HCPs’ LOK regarding CLRIs was significantly associated with interaction with HCCs (p Conclusion: The LOK regarding CLRIs is surprisingly low among HCPs. Frequent provider-patient interactions and training curricula were the associated factors and most significant predictors. Immediate emphasis on targeted curriculum reform and enhanced clinician-patient interaction is recommended to boost the LOK regarding CLRLs, diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.