24/10/2024
BRIEF HISTORY - LABORATORY DEPARTMENT
by: F. Castillo
Let me take a brief moment to look back at where we began.
Our laboratory has a long history that began even before the 1990s. Back then, we operated in a modest space—just an old laboratory—but it was one with great promise.
We saw our first renovation in the mid-1990s, somewhere between 1994 and 1996, as we began to cater to newer equipment. At that time, we were proud to be the leading hospital and laboratory in lower Isabela.
We were the first to adopt new technologies, and I am proud to say that we were the very first hospital in the area to have a blood bank. With only 3 to 4 medical technologists back then, they worked around the clock, even doubling up for night duties, alongside medical technologist interns.
Fast forward to the early 2000s, our second renovation took place—somewhere between 2003 and 2004. This renovation brought much-needed improvements to accommodate our growing staff and the increasing demand for our services. The space became tighter, as we had more equipment and more medical technologists, who had also—let’s say—"grown." We also began handling more tests, reflecting our growth in capability and expertise.
In the last decade, we saw the laboratory flourish. Before the pandemic, we were experiencing significant growth. Although there was a temporary slowdown during the pandemic, we have since recovered, and our volume of work has surged once again.
Today, we stand before our laboratory's third renovation—this time, fully compliant with DOH standards.
The renovation, which began in the last quarter of 2023, has transformed the laboratory into a modern, efficient, and welcoming facility. It features improved cooling, better flooring, and top-notch air conditioning, making it not only compliant but also an ideal working environment.
This renovation is more than just about meeting standards—it is a testament to our unwavering pursuit of excellence. As our laboratory continues to grow and evolve, we expect our workers to draw inspiration from this new space and give their very best. After all, our laboratory is the number one net income earner and the second highest gross income earner in the hospital. Its success is deeply tied to the hospital's overall operations.
The administration has great hopes that our laboratory will continue to flourish. It plays an essential role in ensuring the sustainability of our hospital, and with your continued dedication and hard work, we are confident that it will thrive in the years to come.
Thank you to everyone who has played their part in making this renovation a success. This achievement is a testament to what we can accomplish when we work together, and I look forward to the continued growth of our laboratory, which is at the heart of our hospital’s mission to provide quality healthcare to our community.
Once again, thank you, and congratulations to all.
