Medical laboratory professionals continue to play a critical role in our healthcare system by performing crucial analyses of blood, body fluids, cells and other biological materials. Their expertise supports precise diagnosis, directs efficient treatment and ensures the consistent delivery of safe and reliable patient care.
In recognition of their invaluable contribution, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) joins the global laboratory community in observing Medical Laboratory Professionals Week (Lab Week) from April 19 to 25. This year’s theme, “Lab Story: To Infinity and Beyond for Our Patients,” highlights the dedication, innovation and continuous commitment of clinical and public health laboratory professionals in improving patient outcomes.
Through its Certification Programme, the Bureau certifies medical and testing laboratories across Guyana to the National Standard, GYS 170:2021 – General Requirements for the Operation of a Laboratory. This standard establishes a structured management system that strengthens laboratory operations and supports the consistent delivery of reliable test results.
To achieve and maintain certification under the GYS 170 Standard, the role of laboratory professionals remains vital. In this regard, GNBS will continue to engage laboratory managers, technicians and staff through targeted training, internal audits and certification-related services to enhance performance and ensure continuous improvement.
To date, GNBS has certified forty-one (41) medical and testing laboratories under its Certification Programme, demonstrating its sustained commitment to strengthening laboratory quality systems. It also highlights the push towards Standardisation, especially by the professionals who function within this segment of the healthcare system.
In addition to the GYS 170 Standard, GNBS has adopted and supported the implementation of several key standards to strengthen laboratory quality, safety and competence in Guyana. These include the GYS 235:2024 – General Requirements for Safety in Laboratories; GYS 223:2018 – General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories (adopted from ISO/IEC 17025:2017); GYS 265:2023 – Medical Laboratories: Requirements for Quality and Competence (adopted from ISO 15189:2022), and GYS 475:2022 – Medical Laboratories: Requirements for Safety (adopted from ISO 15190:2020).
These standards collectively ensure that laboratories operate within robust frameworks that prioritise accuracy, safety, reliability and competence of laboratory professionals.
As laboratories across Guyana continue to implement both national and international standards, patients and healthcare providers can remain confident in the reliability and high-quality diagnostic services provided by those that are certified by the GNBS.
GNBS reaffirms its commitment to supporting all laboratory professionals, including those who work to ensure that their laboratories are standards-compliant. Those still requiring training, technical assistance and certification can reach out to the Bureau’s Certification and Business Development Departments for support.
For further information, contact GNBS via telephone at 219-0064–66 or 219-0066, WhatsApp 692-4627, or visit www.gnbsgy.org
