Dr. Naseem Cassim

Naseem Cassim is a South African health systems researcher affiliated with the National Health Laboratory Service, with expertise in public health laboratory management and diagnostic policy. Work centres on strengthening national laboratory programmes that support HIV, tuberculosis, and emerging infectious disease responses within the public sector.

Research explores the implementation, efficiency, and economic value of large-scale molecular diagnostics, including GeneXpert platforms, HIV viral load monitoring, CD4 and cryptococcal antigenaemia testing. Analyses of laboratory data have informed understanding of programme performance, turnaround times, reagent utilisation, and the resilience of services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A strong emphasis on health economics is evident in evaluations of cost outcomes, return on investment, and resource allocation across primary care systems. Contributions support evidence-based policy decisions in South Africa, demonstrating how diagnostic strategies can improve patient outcomes while advancing sustainable public health financing.