Lab Week: Celebrating the Team Behind the Answers

When a provider orders bloodwork, checks for infection, prepares for a transfusion, or looks for the cause of troubling symptoms, the laboratory is often where the answers begin.

During Medical Laboratory Professionals Week, Hereford Regional Medical Center is recognizing the laboratory team for the essential role they play in patient care every single day. Their work may happen behind the scenes, but it has a direct impact on how quickly patients receive answers, how confidently providers make decisions, and how effectively care moves forward.

At Hereford Regional Medical Center, the laboratory provides a full range of on-site testing, including chemistry, hematology, microbiology, blood bank, and molecular testing. That breadth of service allows many tests to be performed locally, helping reduce delays and support faster diagnosis and treatment.

“Laboratory services are one of the foundations of quality healthcare,” said Candice R. Smith, MSN, RHCNOC, CCRN, RACR, CEO of Deaf Smith County Hospital District. “So many clinical decisions depend on timely, accurate test results. During Lab Week, we are proud to recognize the skill, focus, and professionalism of our laboratory team and the vital role they play in caring for our community.”

Fast turnaround times are one of the lab’s greatest strengths. STAT testing is typically completed within an hour, while most routine lab work is available the same day, apart from some microbiology testing that may require more time. The lab also offers advanced molecular testing that can identify respiratory infections and foodborne illnesses within hours.

In addition to routine testing, the lab performs specialized services such as H. pylori breath testing, a non-invasive test used to detect a bacterium associated with stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal concerns.

“People often do not realize how much happens in the lab to support every part of patient care,” said Denise Marnell, Laboratory Manager at Hereford Regional Medical Center. “Every sample we process represents a person who is waiting for answers. Our team takes that responsibility seriously. We are committed to accuracy, efficiency, and making sure patients and providers have the information they need as quickly as possible.”

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