Concerned about the quality of services at a new laboratory testing service, Labtests, which starting functioning in August this year, GPs, nurses and health officials across Auckland are demanding an independent review of the lab. The demand was made by Procare Health in a letter which has been sent to District Health Board heads as well as the Government.

Labtests replaced Diagnostic Medlab Limited in early August, and doctors and nurses are worried that it would take much time for the new establishment to reach the required level of quality, safety and services. When the changeover happened, DHB had assured that standards and quality would not be affected, an assurance that the new set-up has failed to live up-to, according to doctors.

According to the letter sent out by Procare, doctors have lost all confidence in Labtests and the laboratory has failed to meet the expectation of doctors and nurses. Also, Procare Chairman Peter Didsbury has been quick to stress that it is taking too long to address, and work on, the reported problems.

In its defense, Labtests has asserted that it is making improvements and meeting targets. The establishment has shared figures which say that 73% of the patients have rated the service provided as good or excellent.

General Practitioners from across Auckland will hold a public meeting on Tuesday to discuss the change.