Laboratory services play a key role in the health care system:
- There are more than 4,200 publically funded diagnostic tests available in B.C.
- 50-70 per cent of clinical decisions, including treatment plans, are based on laboratory test results
- 100 per cent of cancer diagnoses require a pathology report that includes the results of laboratory tests
Provincial Laboratory Medicine Services (PLMS) works to ensure the laboratory system is meeting the needs of British Columbians and adopting the latest technology, guidelines and techniques. Patient safety and quality of care are our top priorities.
PLMS includes Lower Mainland Labs and the Provincial Blood Coordinating Office, as well as the responsibilities of the former BC Agency for Pathology and Lab Medicine.
Our hospital laboratories in Vancouver Coastal Health, Fraser Health, Providence Health Care and PHSA provide inpatient and outpatient laboratory services, and our specialty laboratories provide reference and specialized testing. We are dedicated to ensuring the laboratory system is meeting the needs of British Columbians and adopting the latest technology, guidelines and techniques.
The Provincial Blood Coordinating Office (PBCO) provides and coordinates blood and blood product utilization programs and manages certain specialized provincial resources. Working with stakeholders, the PBCO advances transfusion medicine practices through unique initiatives that support the effective and appropriate use of blood and blood products across the province.
