Modern lab opens in Blantyre
In a quest to improve laboratory test standards in the country, Pathologists Charles Dzamalala in partnership with Lancet Laboratories of South Africa, has opened a state of the art laboratory in Blantyre that will conduct specialized tests including DNA paternity tests and forensic bone profiles.
Speaking in an interview, Dzamala said they will also be conducting different kinds of specialized tests on blood and tissue fluids including those that were not performed in the country due to low grade equipment.
“A lot of cases have been referred to countries such as South Africa but with this, patients will not have to travel outside the country anymore, we will do the test and if there is any requirement that the test be done abroad we will just send the samples through DHL, they will do the test and email the results,” explained Dzamalala.
Operating under the name Pathlabs Limited, the laboratory strives to offer quality and reliable tests at cheap prices within a record time both on demand and on referral.
“We have already negotiated with Medical Aid providers such as Medical Aid Society of Malawi (Masm) who have agreed to cover the tests at 50 percent,” said Dzamalala.
Denise Deeks, Logistical Manager—Foreign for Lancet Laboratories said the company which operates in over twelve countries in Africa ‘has over 80 pathologists and can conduct up to 3000 different tests’.
Deeks said the company plans to establish two more depots in Lilongwe and Mzuzu as a way of ensuring that every Malawian is treated according to accurate diagnosis.
