Locals needing medical diagnostics have a new option with the LifeLabs Patient Service Centre (PSC), now operating in the Trail mall.
The Trail PSC — located on the second floor of Waneta Plaza — opened Monday (Nov. 20), offering blood work and other medical specimen collection plus cardiac services.
Open from 7 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, the Trail PSC offers visits by both appointment and walk-in.
“The opening of our new PSC in the Kootenay region is a significant occasion for us and the communities we serve,” said Charles Brown, President and CEO of LifeLabs. “This exciting expansion will enhance access to timely healthcare and provide a much-needed resource for the community. We are eagerly looking forward to meeting and serving the community, forging new relationships, and positively impacting the overall healthcare landscape in the region.”
For clarity, the Trail Times contacted LifeLabs with a few questions.
Q: What tests are available in the Trail PSC?
A: LifeLabs offers a comprehensive range of tests at the Trail PSC, including hematology, microbiology, chemistry, cardiac (ECG), and genetic testing. You can find a complete list of the tests and services on our website at www.lifelabs.com
Q: If my doctor orders blood work, do I bring that requisition out to the Trail PSC?
A: Absolutely! You can bring your requisition directly to our Trail PSC by walking in or scheduling an appointment on our website at www.lifelabs.com. Alternatively, you can email or fax your requisition 24 hours before your visit. Email to mailmyreqbc@lifelabs.com or fax to 1-888-674-0370, using the patient’s legal first and last name as the subject line.
Q: Does the Trail PSC carry out standing orders?
A: The PSC can indeed handle standing orders, but a paper requisition is required for the first visit with LifeLabs. If a customer has a current standing order at labs other than LifeLabs, they can request for a copy of their requisition and present it at our PSC or have their physician create a new paper requisition. Once we receive the requisition, we can set up the standing order in our system and accommodate appointments at the intervals specified by the doctor.
Q: Does this service cost anything?
A: The majority of tests provided by LifeLabs are covered under the B.C. Medical Services Plan. However, some select tests your healthcare provider recommends may not be covered. If a test is not covered, you will be informed upon arrival at the Patient Service Centre, and our staff will discuss payment options with you.
Note: All LifeLabs clients will have access to MyCareCompass: a user-friendly digital health portal to view test results, book appointments, check-in online, browse health articles, and more.
Note: The Trail Health Centre Laboratory in downtown Trail remains open as always.
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