Residents in Squamish needing bloodwork at the local hospital laboratory are being asked to book appointments online as health authorities address ongoing staffing shortages in the province’s medical lab system.
In a statement, Tanya Colledge, Manager of Communications and Engagement for the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA), said lack of trained lab staff is impacting service and had led to changes in operating hours and procedures.
“To prevent patients from experiencing long walk-in wait times, those requiring blood work in Squamish are being asked to make an appointment online,” Colledge said. Appointments can be booked at www.labonlinebooking.ca.
The Squamish General Hospital lab is open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with drop-in appointments available between 7:30 a.m. and 12 p.m., subject to availability. Priority is given to urgent cases, such as lab work needed for emergency room patients, those awaiting surgery, or individuals admitted to the hospital.
Colledge said the health authority is working to improve staffing levels. “Provincial Laboratory Medicine Services is working closely with educational and training organizations to increase the number of medical lab assistants and technologists in the system and available for work,” Colledge noted.
Residents can sign up or log into the Outpatient Laboratory Online Booking System and pick their preferred laboratory location and appointment date and time. The online account can be used to book, change or cancel any appointment. First time users will be asked to create an account.
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