Diagnostic laboratories provide quality services for inpatients, outpatients, emergency patients, and outreach clients of all ages. Tests are requested by attending clinicians across specialties and, where appropriate, by direct request according to policy.

The main laboratory operates 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Activities are directed by licensed laboratory staff who provide diagnostics in both medical and technical areas. Each section is supervised by experienced leads; testing is performed by competent scientists and technologists.

Results are monitored for accuracy, precision, and reliability through internal and external quality programmes—including daily quality controls, equipment maintenance, and external quality assessment.

Our laboratories are committed to timely, convenient, and economical service while maintaining the highest standards for every patient.

Laboratory medicine specialties

• Microbiology
• Haematology
• Automated chemistry and biochemistry; immuno-haematology
• Coagulation
• Immunology
• Serology
• Blood transfusion medicine
• Pathology
• Parasitology

Specimen collection (overview)

Written instructions are available for each specimen type. If you are unsure how to collect or label a sample, ask reception or the laboratory before leaving home.

• Random urine collection
• 24-hour urine collection
• Stool sample collection
• Sputum sample collection

Examples of commonly requested tests

• Haematology: CBC/FBC, ESR, CD4, bleeding and clotting times, PT/INR, HbA1c, grouping and cross-match
• Chemistry: LFTs, RFTs, electrolytes, lipids, pancreatic enzymes, inflammatory markers
• Serology: hepatitis B surface antigen, syphilis serology, typhoid IgG/IgM, malaria rapid tests
• Urine: urinalysis with microscopy, pregnancy testing where indicated
• Other: sickle screening, blood films, selected hormones, cardiac markers, CSF studies (as ordered)

Frequently asked questions

Why is my information verified at registration?

Correct details help us match specimens to the right request and return results to your clinician quickly. Bring your laboratory request form, payment or insurance information, and photo ID if available.

How long will blood collection take?

Wait times depend on how many tests are ordered and clinical priority. Timed or urgent tests may be prioritised. If you do not need fasting blood tests, visiting after the early morning period may shorten your wait while daily QC runs.

Do some tests need preparation?

Some tests require fasting or special preparation. Follow your doctor’s instructions on medicines unless they tell you to stop a drug specifically for the test.

Who explains my results?

Laboratory staff generally cannot interpret results for patients. Your doctor will explain results and next steps. Ask them if you have not received feedback within the timeframe they gave you.