Kirby Medical Center Celebrates Lab Week!
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Celebrating National Laboratory Professionals Week 2026 at Kirby Medical Center
Each year, National Laboratory Professionals Week is celebrated across the country to honor the essential role laboratory professionals play in healthcare. In 2026, Lab Week takes place April 19–25, providing the perfect opportunity to recognize the dedicated individuals who work behind the scenes to deliver accurate, timely laboratory results that support every diagnosis and treatment plan.
At Kirby Medical Center, our laboratory team is an integral part of the patient experience, helping ensure high-quality, reliable care at every stage.
Growth and Excellence in the Kirby Medical Center Laboratory
Since joining the Kirby family in July 2002, Director of Laboratory Services Lisa Castang has witnessed tremendous growth and innovation within the laboratory. What once operated with a single phlebotomist during limited morning hours has evolved into a highly coordinated team of 14 phlebotomists, now providing coverage from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., along with additional support at KMG Atwood and KMG Cerro Gordo.
The technical side of the laboratory has experienced similar expansion. The lab has grown from three technicians covering daytime hours with on-call nights to a team of 10 laboratory professionals providing 24/7 laboratory services. This growth has eliminated on-call shifts while significantly improving efficiency, turnaround times, and responsiveness.
Advancing Patient Care Through Technology and Teamwork
These advancements have had a meaningful impact on patient care at Kirby Medical Center. Increased staffing throughout the day and evening has led to shorter wait times, more personalized attention, and a supportive, calm environment for patients.
In addition, the implementation of advanced laboratory equipment, including the lab’s first automation system in 2025, has further enhanced the team’s ability to deliver fast, accurate, and reliable results — helping providers and patients alike make timely, informed decisions.
Honoring Our Laboratory Professionals During Lab Week 2026
National Laboratory Professionals Week 2026 is the perfect time to celebrate the expertise, precision, and dedication of our laboratory team. While their work often happens behind the scenes, their impact is felt in every patient experience across Kirby Medical Center.
Meet the Kirby Medical Center Laboratory Team
- Lisa C. – Director of Laboratory Services
- Natalie F. – Assistant Manager of the Lab
- Stephanie B. – Medical Lab Scientist
- Mandy C. – Medical Lab Technician
- Megan O. – Medical Lab Scientist
- Grace D. – Medical Lab Scientist
- Suzette B. – Medical Lab Scientist
- Denise M. – Medical Lab Scientist
- Wilton “Yves” T. – Medical Lab Scientist
- Kathy F. – Medical Lab Technician
- Karmyn F. – Medical Lab Technician (in-training)
- Tina D. – Lab Clerk/Coordinator
- Craig H. – Clinic Lab Associate
- Teresa W. – Clinic Lab Associate
- Sheyla P. – Clinic Lab Associate
Phlebotomy Team:
- Melinda W.
- Ashley K.
- Jamie F.
- Hunter G.
- Bradly F.
- Jordan A.
- Kayla S.
- Jordyn O.
- Bianca B.
- Travis W.
Thank You for Making a Difference
This National Laboratory Professionals Week, we proudly thank each member of the Kirby Medical Center Laboratory team for their professionalism, dedication, and the essential role they play in providing high-quality healthcare.
Every test. Every result. Every patient.
Happy Lab Week! 🧪