Microbiology

• Please limit sending genital swabs for bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis; testing is still available, but capacity is reduced. HPV and STI (Chlamydia, N. gonorrhoea, Trichomonas and Herpes) swabs are not affected.
• Turn-around times will be affected.
• If you have a clinically urgent request, please discuss with our on-call microbiologist.  They can be contacted via AwanuiConnect
• Where possible, treat empirically.

Processing

• No Test Adds will be processed until further notice. You will need to request additional tests with a new specimen.
• Routine specimens received without a request form will not be processed. A repeat specimen with a request form will need to be submitted – exceptions are Histology, Cytology, and precious specimens.
• Phone calls – calls direct to departments using direct dial numbers or extensions may not be answered, callers may experience longer wait times.

Collection centres

• Collection centres may not be able to process payments
• Phones calls may not be answered
• Advise patients to use the online booking system to make a blood collection booking – Awanui Labs Booking.
• Please note collection centres may close at short notice

Microbiology

• Please limit sending genital swabs for bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis; testing is still available, but capacity is reduced. HPV and STI (Chlamydia, N. gonorrhoea, Trichomonas and Herpes) swabs are not affected.
• Turn-around times will be affected
• If you have a clinically urgent request, please discuss with our on-call microbiologist.  They can be contacted via AwanuiConnect
• Where possible, treat empirically.

All departments (except for Specimen Reception / Processing)

• Phone calls will not be answered between 1100 to 1200hrs. Please call outside of these hours.

Collection centres

• Wait times may be longer than usual.
• Advise patients to use the online booking system to make a blood collection booking – Awanui Labs Booking.