DMH Opens Molecular Lab

Molecular testing is the new age in laboratory testing. Decatur Memorial Hospital has jumped to this next level of laboratory testing technology with the addition of a Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory.

Molecular testing, or testing for genetic material or specific genes, has many benefits. This testing allows our physicians to assess the progress of a disease and the effectiveness of a treatment by looking at the amount of specific DNA, RNA and proteins in a patient’s specimen. Additionally, we are able to test people for a specific disease and treat them preventively before the disease manifests itself.

The FDA has approved many molecular tests for certain diseases and many more are in development. Having the experience and the equipment already in place means we can move quickly to have these tests available for our patients as soon as they are approved. Since the testing is done on-site at DMH, the test results are known much quicker. Initially, all testing will be blood-based and testing for genes in tissue will soon be added.

Previously, most molecular testing was sent out-of-state to a special lab which meant extra time to receive the results. Now, having the equipment to do the tests at DMH means physicians and patients will significantly reduce their waiting time and will be able to move ahead sooner with treatment.

According to Roche Diagnostics, only 20 percent of hospitals nationwide have their own molecular testing lab, and now Decatur Memorial Hospital will join those ranks.

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