NAPE Celebrates National Medical Laboratory Week

NAPE Celebrates National Medical Laboratory Week

ST. JOHN’S, NL – April 22 to 28 is national medical laboratory week. NAPE, the union representing approximately 600 medical lab professionals, says while the work lab professionals perform is essential to the people of the province, their work is rarely acknowledged.

According to NAPE President Carol Furlong, “medical laboratory professionals are a highly specialized group who perform thousands of complicated medical tests and play a vital role in the diagnosis and prevention of disease.”

“These specialists are often unrecognized by the public as an essential part of the health care team because most of their work is carried out behind the scenes,” said Furlong. “The critical testing and analysis they perform is essential for doctors in making a diagnosis and determining the right course of treatment for patients. Without their specialized skills, health care as we know it could not be delivered.”

These healthcare professionals perform a full range of laboratory tests, from simple prenatal blood tests and collection of blood, to more complex tests to uncover diseases such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes and cancer. Medical Laboratory professionals operate complex electronic equipment, computers, and precisions instruments costing millions of dollars. They are also responsible for confirming the accuracy of test results, and reporting laboratory findings to pathologists and other physicians. The information the medical laboratory professional gives to the doctor influences the medical treatment a patient will receive.

“This week is an opportunity to recognize the contribution and dedication of medical lab professionals to our health care system and to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. We ask that you take this time to join us in acknowledging the vital role of medical laboratory professionals,” stated Furlong.

More information on national medical laboratory week can be found at: www.ourfocusisyou.ca

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