Today, WGH released a statement in response to our questions and the media release. Here is the text of that letter, sent to us as an email from James Lowe, Director of People Services & Culture.  We are glad to see they do not intend to close the lab completely. It is concerning that they are in negotiations to export all routine microbiology testing; that is a risk to Yukoner’s health and will result in more time between test and result. It is also very concerning that these negotiations are going on in secret – especially as WGH initiated the proposal call to secure these services. We question the fact that this is taking place in secret, even while the hospital negotiates a new contract with its employees. 

WGH to close its microbiology lab, send all swabs and samples for testing in BC at St. Paul’s Hospital.