20/04/2026
SBBCTM strengthens Blood Testing capabilities.
The Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine (SBBCTM) at Port Moresby General Hospital has significantly strengthened its blood testing capabilities with the installation of a new, advanced diagnostic system, marking an important milestone for healthcare delivery in Papua New Guinea.
As the first facility of its kind in the country, SBBCTM provides a comprehensive, end-to-end blood service. This includes donor blood collection, laboratory testing, blood grouping and cross-matching, as well as the safe storage and distribution of blood products. SBBCTM plays a vital role in supporting clinical services across the hospital and ensuring that safe, compatible blood is available when needed for emergencies, surgeries, and ongoing treatments.
This week marks a major step forward for the SBBCTM laboratory, with SNIBE engineers completing the installation and on-site training for the Maglumi X6 analyser. The Maglumi X6 is a high-throughput immunoassay system capable of delivering faster, more accurate diagnostic results. Its introduction significantly improves the Centre’s ability to screen donated blood for infectious diseases and other risk factors, further reducing the likelihood of transfusion-transmitted infections and enhancing overall patient safety.
The new system also increases testing efficiency and capacity, enabling laboratory teams to process a higher volume of samples in less time which is particularly important in a high-demand hospital environment where timely access to safe blood can be critical in saving lives.
The equipment was supplied through Brian Bell Group Meddent, with teams on the ground now fully trained in its operation and maintenance. This ensures sustainability of the system and empowers the team on the ground to independently manage and optimise its use as part of daily laboratory operations.
The benefits of this investment extend across multiple departments within Port Moresby General Hospital including the critical areas such as the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and surgical programs including Operation Open Heart will directly benefit from improved access to safe and reliable blood supplies. Additionally, patients undergoing treatment for chronic illnesses, infectious diseases, and cancer will benefit from enhanced screening processes that help prevent the transmission of viruses and other pathogens through transfusions.
“This is a huge milestone which will have a positive impact on many lives ensuring blood donations are provided to patients in a timely and safe manor when help is needed most. Well done to the teams’ consistent efforts”. Commented Sir Brian Bell Foundation CEO Bronwyn Wright.
Dr Kone Sobi, Director of Medical Services, Port Moresby General Hospital commented “The installation of the new blood testing system at the Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine is a significant advancement for Port Moresby General Hospital. This investment strengthens our capacity to provide safe, timely, and reliable blood services, which are essential to emergency care, surgery, and the ongoing treatment of our patients. I extend my sincere appreciation to the Sir Brian Bell Foundation for their continued support and commitment to improving healthcare in Papua New Guinea. This contribution will have a meaningful and lasting impact on patient care.”
This new system represents a broader commitment to strengthening healthcare in PNG, ensuring that modern, reliable diagnostic technologies are available to support both patients and healthcare professionals on the front line.
