PACHS laboratory teams are able to provide the latest in testing services for your Lifecare needs.
The Laboratory Department at Palo Alto County Health System offers testing that is not seen in most small hospitals. With the edition of a new chemistry analyzer, genetic testing capabilities, and continually upgrading of our equipment we are able to offer the most up to date testing services available.
Our entire staff in the laboratory is certified for DOT and non-DOT urine drug testing and breath alcohol testing for state and local companies. We also have a certified urine drug screen trainer that can provide training for collectors quarterly. PACHS also sponsors an annual supervisor training for companies in the area who need to complete their mandatory annual training in conjunction with ILCC.
The Laboratory Department at Palo Alto County Health System offers testing that is not seen in most small hospitals.
Laboratory Services
The highly complex laboratory at the Palo Alto County Health System performs approximately 100,00 tests each year in the specialty areas listed below. The exceptionally skilled staff consists of one phlebotomist, three medical technologists, and six medical laboratory technicians who can provide coverage 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week. We participate in the American Proficiency Testing Institute to assure the accuracy of testing results and are inspected by a CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment) certified state inspector.
Laboratory services include diagnostic testing and follow-up testing for patient monitoring once the provider has made a diagnosis. Services also include employee wellness screens for participating employers. Our lab is a reference lab for the clinics in the Palo Alto County Health System, which includes the Family Practice Clinics in Emmetsburg, West Bend and Graettinger. Daily courier services between the clinics and the hospital aid in the rapid processing of patient samples. Our goal is to promote accurate test results in a timely manner so we can help you keep yourself healthy.
Services Include:
- Microbiology
- Serology
- Chemistry
- Therapeutic Drugs
- Coagulation
- Immunology
- Urinalysis
- Drug Screens Collection (DOT/non DOT)
- Breath Alcohol
- Histology
- Cytology
- Immunohematology/ Blood Bank
- Wellness Program
- Pathology
We have staff on call for post-accident testing, and for emergency testing, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Lab Wellness
Direct Access Lab Services
Today we are all trying to be more health-conscious, much more aware of our own bodies, and considerably more knowledgeable about physical health and illness in general. Palo Alto County Hospital offers a program where anyone can come to the laboratory and receive wellness screens without a medical provider’s order. Direct Access Lab Testing allows each of us to more actively manage our health and health concerns. Wellness Laboratory Testing is not meant as a substitute for regular medical care; it is a quick, easy and inexpensive way for people to receive wellness laboratory test results in between testing with your PACHS medical provider.
About Wellness Testing:
- A physician’s order is NOT required for these tests.
- Tests are offered at Palo Alto County Hospital, Monday – Friday from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Please register at the hospital registration desk and ask for Lab Wellness.
- Anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- The customer, if 18 or older, or parent/legal guardian if the person is under age 18, consents to take responsibility for the follow up of abnormal results.
- A physician will review critical test results.
- Payment for the tests must be received at the time of service in cash or check; insurance will not be billed.
- The results will be sent directly to you within one week of collecting the specimen. You are encouraged to share these results with your health care provider at your next appointment.
Available Tests
* Indicates that an Individual should be fasting. Fasting, for the laboratory, means no solid or liquid food for 12 hours and no alcohol 24 hours prior to specimen collection. Water should be taken in normal amounts and you should continue taking your medications as directed by your provider.
