Medical Association would welcome Medlab move 

Doctors in Auckland are cautiously welcoming news that medical test provider Labtests may be in line for some outside help.

There is speculation Diagnostic Medlab will be rehired to carry out a small volume of community lab services in Auckland, following widespread criticism and a suggestion of persisting problems with services provided by newcomer Labtests.

Auckland District Health Board has confirmed discussions have taken place, but says no decisions have been made.

The Medical Association says Auckland's new laboratory testing provider has improved its service but it remains to be seen whether Labtests has done enough to keep its full contract.

Association chairman Dr Peter Foley says there is sense in having assistance from a second provider.

Foley says they have always been critical of the risks of having a single provider for a community as large as Auckland and if the rumour is true, the Association would see it as a potentially positive move.

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