ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - An external review of laboratory services for Newfoundland's largest health authority recommends several changes to avoid repeating past mistakes.
Eastern Health launched the review by the University Health Network's Laboratory Medicine Program in Toronto.
It was requested after errors were discovered earlier this year related to cyclosporine, a drug used on patients whose immune systems are threatened.
Key findings include dysfunctional relationships among various lab staff, lack of complex testing expertise, low morale and inappropriate relationships and responsibilities between management and staff.
The review recommends consolidating lab staff at one site rather than multiple locations, a move that is already underway.
It also calls for a new quality management system.
Eastern Health president Vickie Kaminski apologized to patients for the errors and said the health board will study the costs of implementing the recommendations.
She says Eastern Health hopes to implement the most urgent recommendations within three months, and the others over the next 18 months.
Lab testing errors were at the centre of a breast cancer scandal in the province that led to a $17-million settlement.
The review also recommends recruiting several more specialized staff.
Kaminski says she's optimistic about hiring top-quality candidates as the authority rebuilds a quality lab.
Eastern Health says 212 patients had cyclosporine testing during the period when errors were made and that their cases are still being reviewed to determine what if any effects they may have had.
