Cimas MEDLABS, Zimbabwe’s top diagnostic and medical lab provider, has launched a major overhaul project across its labs.
Recognized as a Health Institution by the Medical Laboratory and Clinical Scientists Association of Zimbabwe, Cimas MEDLABS offers a wide array of pathology tests like haematology, biochemistry, histology, microbiology, viral load, and bone marrow aspirate to both Cimas members and non-members. Referrals mainly come from primary healthcare clinics and private physicians.
During a recent media briefing coinciding with Medical Laboratory Professionals Week (Lab Week) 2024, Dr. Tsitsi Moyo, Cimas Group Medical Advisor and Diagnostics Head, introduced this initiative. Dr. Moyo stressed that this project would notably cut down on referrals to Harare’s Central Laboratory, streamlining operations for efficiency gains.
“Cimas MEDLABS was established in 1985 and has grown from a single laboratory to eight locations country wide that incorporate a network of branches, satellite laboratories and collection points accounting for a significant volume of all pathology tests carried out in Zimbabwe,” Dr. Moyo said.
“As we commemorate the Lab Week, we are happy to be also celebrating our milestone of acquiring a state-of-the-art gene sequencer to be unveiled soon. With this of the gene sequencing addition, research will be a major thrust of Cimas. MEDLABS for the future in ensuring that the African genome is included in all aspects of health care, from diagnostics to pharmaceuticals and every aspect of science.”
Lab Week is an annual global celebration that recognizes the invaluable contributions made by medical laboratory professionals to the healthcare sector. This year’s theme, “The Lab is Everything,” emphasizes the crucial role these professionals play in patient care across both public and private healthcare systems.
The Lab Week 2024 edition, taking place from April 14th to April 20th, aims to highlight the essential nature of laboratories and their pivotal role in providing high-quality healthcare services. Cimas MEDLABS’ continuous efforts align with this objective, reaffirming its dedication to delivering accessible and efficient diagnostic services nationwide.
Dr. Moyo emphasized the exceptional capabilities of the gene sequencer, which incorporates cutting-edge advancements in sequencing technology. This technology enables unrivaled speed, precision, and efficacy in interpreting genetic information.
“Cimas MEDLABS is immensely proud to be at the forefront of genetic research and personalised medicine. We remain committed to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes through groundbreaking research and technology,” she said.
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Dr. Moyo stressed that Cimas MEDLABS values each sample beyond its scientific worth, recognizing that behind every sample is a person with aspirations, emotions, and a quest for better health. These individuals place their trust in Cimas MEDLABS, sharing a part of themselves in search of support and wellness.
“Our laboratory professionals-the scientists, pathologists, and all support services put in the hard work and dedication with commitment to accuracy and quick turnaround times to assist clinicians in providing accurate and timely care,” she noted. “Cimas MEDLABS as a designated health institution by the Medical Laboratory and Clinical Scientists Association of Zimbabwe we offer industrial attachments and internships for newly qualified scientists.
“Through this, we provide new scientists to real-world work exposure, state of the art equipment and an impeccable work ethic to develop them into well rounded professionals as they launch their careers,” she said.
“Cimas MEDLABS is more than a clinical diagnostic and testing entity; we are also involved in medical research in partnership with some major research and clinical trials in the country. We endeavour to make the African voice, particularly the Zimbabwean voice to be heard as a contributor to scientific discovery.”
