Major Queensland hospital to close pathology labs amid potential formaldehyde exposure investigation
Summary
Mater will permanently close its in-house pathology services at its Brisbane and Springfield hospitals and outsource the work to specialist providers. The decision followed safety concerns at the Brisbane anatomical pathology laboratory, where one of 17 exposure samples reportedly exceeded workplace standards, and a review of the service’s long-term costs and infrastructure needs.Key Facts
- The closure affects pathology services at Mater’s Brisbane and Springfield hospitals and around 400 staff.
- Mater said providers including Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology and Pathology Queensland will take over the services.
- Mater closed the Brisbane anatomical pathology laboratory on 24 September over concerns about possible formalin exposure.
- One of 17 samples taken on 21 September showed an employee’s exposure above workplace standards, according to the article.
- Mater said an investigation into the abnormal result is ongoing.
- The hospital said reopening the lab would require significant long-term infrastructure changes and investment.
- Mater said its current pathology operating model was not sustainable over the longer term.
- Queensland Health said Mater Health is responsible for decisions about its pathology services.
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