LifeLabs

LifeLabs Brings New Liver Health Test to Ontario and British Columbia, Empowering Better Health Decisions

Toronto, Ontario. Vancouver B.C. December 11, 2024: LifeLabs, Canada’s leading provider of laboratory services, is excited to announce the launch of the Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF^TM) Score test in British Columbia, following its introduction in Ontario in late 2023. This non-invasive blood test is designed to help people, and their doctors better understand the risk of advanced liver disease before it becomes severe.

Liver disease, primarily non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) can progress silently and lead to serious health issues like cirrhosis. The ELF Score test measures key markers in the blood that help indicate the level of liver scarring, helping doctors identify individuals at risk and take steps to manage or slow down disease progression early.

Why This Matters:

Simple, Non-Invasive and Convenient: A straightforward blood test that avoids the need for complex or uncomfortable procedures.

Increased Accessibility: Geographical disparities exist for accessing gastroenterologists and transient elastography across Canada. Addressing these gaps with non-invasive tools like the ELF Score can enhance liver disease management and reduce the burden on individuals and communities.

Reduce Wait Times: Patients can receive timely treatment from GPs without the long wait for specialist appointments for liver scans.

Informed Referrals: Helps empower general practitioners to make confident, necessary referrals, avoiding many unnecessary ones.

“Offering the ELF Score test aligns with our mission to give Canadians more tools to understand and take charge of their health,” said Charles Brown, President and CEO at LifeLabs. “This test provides insights that help people, and their physicians make informed decisions, potentially preventing serious liver issues before they start.”

This test provides insights to help you take control of your liver health and make informed decisions with your healthcare provider.

You’re more likely to develop NAFLD (MASLD) if you:

Are overweight or obese
Have type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes
Have abnormal levels of fats in your blood, which may include high levels of triglycerides, high levels of “bad” (LDL) cholesterol, or low levels of “good” (HDL) cholesterol
Have metabolic syndrome. This is a mix of conditions linked to being overweight or obese and makes you more likely to get type 2 diabetes and heart disease. In order to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, any three of the following conditions must be present:
- Large waist size
- High blood pressure
- High blood sugar (glucose)
- High levels of triglycerides in your blood
- Low levels of “good” (HDL) cholesterol in your blood

False results do occur. Like most screening tests, false positives are more likely than false negatives and additional testing should be considered.

Please discuss your results with your healthcare provider. The information provided by this test should not be used to start, stop, or change any course of treatment unless advised by your healthcare provider. This test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare provider.

For more details about the ELF Score test and how it can support liver health management, please visit Liver Fibrosis Testing – LifeLabs

Quotes:

“Given the subtle way that chronic liver disease may evolve, and the serious consequences of this condition, the importance of early detection in the progression prior to advanced stages cannot be overstated. Indeed, the benefits of noninvasive testing like the ELF Score include a test that is both convenient and simple to administer, while providing enhancements in the ability to assess patients with, as well as before, the development of advanced damage/scarring of the liver. This may provide an opportunity for both the healthcare provider and patient to collaborate in preventing progression to end-stage liver disease; thus, potentially avoiding the consequences of this condition and developing complications that can reduce both quality and quantity of life.” – Dr. Ted Xenodemetropoulos, MD, MSc, FRCPC, Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Division of Education and Innovation, McMaster University

“The ELF test is a non-invasive tool which will provide important information regarding the amount of damage in the liver, which is an area of significant unmet medical need.  When 25-30% of the population may have a liver disease, we need a reliable, non-invasive test which can be used in multiple settings to provide the patient and physicians with the stage of liver damage.  In particular, as ELF is an easy blood-based test it will allow access for persons outside large cities to a higher level of evaluation.” – Dr. Alnoor Ramji MD FRCP(C) Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology Division of Gastroenterology, University Of British Columbia.

“I see every day the difference early and accurate liver disease risk assessment can make. Tools like the ELF Score provide a vital opportunity for both patients and healthcare providers. Ultimately, it’s about giving people the tools they need to manage their health proactively, potentially preventing progression to more serious liver conditions.” – Mike Betel, President and Founder of the Fatty Liver Alliance

LifeLabs Launch 2023 Community Report: Empowering People, Delivering Excellence

Toronto, ON. December 10, 2024 – LifeLabs, Canada’s leading medical diagnostic laboratory, is proud to release its 2023 Community Report, Empowering People, Delivering Excellence, highlighting the strides LifeLabs has taken to support Canadians’ health journeys while advancing cutting-edge diagnostics.

In 2023, LifeLabs expanded services to underserved communities, introduced at-home testing kits, and embraced technology to provide faster, more accurate health insights. This commitment to quality has led to LifeLabs being recognized as Canada’s most trusted brand in diagnostics, an honour awarded by BrandSpark.

The 2023 Community Report showcases LifeLabs’ vision to empower Canadians with tools and information to take control of their health, whether in urban centres or remote areas. Key highlights from the report include:

Expanded Accessibility: LifeLabs has opened multiple new patient service centres in underserved communities, increasing Canadians’ access to diagnostic services.
Innovative Diagnostics: With the introduction of at-home testing kits, LifeLabs is bringing personalized health care into the home, empowering individuals to monitor their health conveniently.
Community and Sustainability Initiatives: LifeLabs is strengthening its commitment to community and environmental sustainability through partnership and employee-led initiatives. These efforts have reduced waste, advanced eco-friendly practices, and promoted healthier environments.

“Our goal is to make health care accessible, empowering, and seamless for Canadians,” said Charles Brown, President & CEO of LifeLabs. “By combining trusted diagnostics with forward-thinking innovation, we’re not just enhancing health care today but setting the stage for a healthier tomorrow.”

The report reflects LifeLabs’ commitment to environmental sustainability, workforce development, community involvement, and its continued dedication to building trust and quality in every interaction.

Explore the full 2023 Community Report and discover LifeLabs’ impact on Canadian health care.

Joint investigation report released by the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario (IPC) and the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner for British Columbia (OIPC)

Joint investigation report released by the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario (IPC) and the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner for British Columbia (OIPC).

November 25, 2024 — LifeLabs acknowledges the release of the joint investigation report by the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario (IPC) and the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner for British Columbia (OIPC) relating to the cyber-attack that occurred in 2019. The orders and recommendations outlined in the report have long since been addressed. LifeLabs is pleased that the matter has been resolved and is committed to applying the valuable insights gained from the joint investigation. These findings are not only crucial for LifeLabs but also provide important lessons for all health information custodians facing the increasing challenges of cybersecurity. LifeLabs remains dedicated to safeguarding health information and continuously improving our practices to address these evolving risks.

Renu Gill’s Diwali Story

Renu Gill, Manager of Laboratory Operations at the Victoria Reference Lab, shares how the Festival of Lights connects her family through hope and community.

As Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated, LifeLabs recognizes the diversity of our team and the rich cultural traditions that make each employee unique. This year, Renu Gill, Manager of Laboratory Operations at the Victoria Reference Lab, shares what Diwali means to her and the joy she finds in passing on its traditions.

“Diwali is about so much more than just a celebration. It’s a time to honour the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. For me, it’s about family, gratitude, and the hope that light represents, especially when life feels challenging.”

As a Sikh, Diwali has a dual significance for Renu’s family. “For us, it also coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, which celebrates the release of Guru Hargobind from prison,” she describes. “It’s a deeply meaningful holiday, and we celebrate it by going to the Gurdwara, lighting candles, and sharing parsaad, a sweet dish that symbolizes the sweetness of community.”

Traditions from her childhood remain a big part of her Diwali celebrations today. “Growing up, we’d spend hours cleaning the house, making sure every corner was spotless,” she recalls. “My mother would lead my brothers and me through every room, and that’s something I still do today with my kids—though it’s definitely more challenging with two active young boys!”

After the home is prepared, the celebrations begin with lighting divas, small oil lamps, and sparklers. “It’s become a tradition for my kids, their cousins, and our friends to gather and light sparklers together. Those little moments, where you’re all together under the night sky, make it so special,” she says. “And of course, we all come together to share a feast filled with all kinds of delicious Indian food and sweets. Food is central to Diwali—it’s what brings people together.”

For Renu, Diwali wouldn’t be complete without traditional Indian dishes, especially the ones her mother and mother-in-law prepare. “Diwali has so many flavours! From savoury snacks like pakoras and samosas to sweets like gulab jamun and jalebis,” she says. “My mother-in-law goes all out, and she makes sure we have plenty to eat. My favourite was always my mom’s saffron-infused sweet rice. It’s something I now look forward to every year.”

Even dressing up plays an important role in her family’s celebrations. “We wear colourful, traditional outfits, and I’ve even managed to get my boys excited about wearing kurtas. It’s fun for them, and it’s a way of connecting with their roots.”

Looking back, Renu recalls two Diwalis that left a lasting impact on her life. “When I was 10, my parents took us to India for the first time, and we celebrated Diwali at my father’s childhood home. It was magical—the colours, the lights, the fireworks—everything was so vibrant,” she reflects. “Then, in 2017, we celebrated our first Diwali with my youngest son, Pavan. It was special because it was the first time my oldest, Jeevan, was old enough to fully understand the meaning of Diwali. We were all together as a family, and that made it unforgettable.”

Through her story, Renu shares a wish for others to find meaning in Diwali as well. “Even if you’re not celebrating Diwali for its religious aspects, I’d encourage anyone to light a candle with family or friends,” she says. “Diwali is about hope, positivity, and community. It’s a beautiful opportunity to bring light into your life and share it with others.”

STRONGER TOGETHER

We thank Renu for sharing her story. We’re proud to celebrate Diwali alongside our diverse team, as we all find light

in understanding, connection, and shared moments of joy. At LifeLabs, we are committed to creating an inclusive culture and embracing the rich diversity that each member brings. Together, we are stronger.

LifeLabs adds the Diabetes Health (Hb1Ac) Kit to its At Home Kit Program, offering Ontarians a convenient at-home solution for monitoring their long-term blood sugar levels

Toronto, Ontario – November 06, 2024: LifeLabs, a leading provider of laboratory diagnostic services, is pleased to introduce the Diabetes Health (HbA1c) Kit as part of our At Home Kit Program to offer Ontarians a flexible and convenient option for monitoring their long-term blood sugar, help optimize their diabetes management, and improve their overall health outcomes.

The Diabetes Health (Hb1Ac) Kit supports adults in Ontario who are over the age of 18 that may be pre-diabetic, have type 2 diabetes and/or at-risk of developing diabetes in assessing and monitoring their HbA1c status. An A1C test result reflects your average blood sugar level for the past two to three months. Specifically, the HbA1c test measures what percentage of hemoglobin proteins in your blood are coated with sugar (glycated). Although this test is non-diagnostic, it may be used to assess an individual’s risk for type 2 diabetes and identify the most appropriate options for next steps and possible treatment to optimize their overall health.

“It’s important to us to be able to support Canadians who are looking for convenient and flexible at-home solutions to help them be proactive about their health and work with their healthcare provider with as much information as possible as their overall health profile,” said Charles Brown, President and CEO of LifeLabs. “We’re excited to introduce the Diabetes Health (Hb1Ac) Kit to help empower our customers to live their best health with the support of essential medical testing that’s delivered through personalized methods.”

“We’re excited to expand our At Home Kit Program with the addition of the Diabetes Health (Hb1Ac) Kit,” said Lawrence Mahan, SVP Commercial, Business and Consumer Markets. “This addition builds upon an existing suite of LifeLabs offerings that already serves patients with diabetes, and it helps provides Canadians and their healthcare providers with actionable insights for managing their health in a more personalized manner.”

Getting your blood sugar levels checked with the Diabetes Health (HbA1c) Kit can help you understand your risk for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. When you have prediabetes or diabetes, your blood sugar levels are higher than normal and your body’s ability to use insulin to process that sugar (glucose) is greatly impacted. In addition, these conditions can lead to complications that can reduce life expectancy by 5-15 years. But with early detection, monitoring and treatment, you can reverse the progression of the disease, prevent permanent damage to vital organs, and improve your overall health.

This test is only for screening and monitoring long term glucose levels. The information provided by this test should not be used to start, stop, or change any course of treatment unless advised by your healthcare provider. This test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare provider. This test should also not be used to check an individual’s short term (daily) glucose levels or be used for the daily management of an individual’s diabetes.

This program is currently only available in Ontario and is not available in B.C. or Saskatchewan.

The kit can be ordered online through the LifeLabs store, www.lifelabs.com/a1c-testing and once the collection process is complete, the kit can be either returned via Canada Post (with prepaid postage) or dropped off at the nearest LifeLabs patient service centre.

LifeLabs’ At Home Kit Program provides a diverse range of self-collection kits for various health tests, including cervical to colorectal health, and hormonal health, catering to many different individuals with from those facing accessibility challenges, to those with busy schedules, or anyone just looking to be proactive about their wellness journey.

Visit lifelabs.com to learn more.

CAN Health Network and LifeLabs join forces to drive Canadian innovation in health care

October 29, 2024 (Oakville, ON) – The Coordinated Accessible National (CAN) Health Network and LifeLabs, Canada’s leading provider of medical laboratory services, have announced a new partnership aimed at advancing health care across the country through innovative technology.

As part of this collaboration, LifeLabs has already begun integrating advanced technology into its operations to continue enhancing efficiency and providing even more timely, personalized care. The next slate of commercial engagements being explored focused on improving lab operations, enhancing patient care, and supporting the growth of Canadian tech companies.

Launched in 2019, the CAN Health Network brings together leading health care operators from across the country to identify their biggest challenges and match them with Canadian-made technology solutions. The Network’s goals are to introduce homegrown innovation across the country, grow Canadian businesses, create more jobs and improve the health of Canadians.

As Canada’s leading provider of medical laboratory services, LifeLabs is committed to bringing advanced, timely care to Canadians. Supporting over 20 million patient visits annually, the organization conducts over 100 million laboratory tests through leading edge technologies, enabling patients and their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their health. LifeLabs operates one of Canada’s largest online patient portals, MyCareCompass, supporting over 9 million Canadians in receiving their results online.

“Investing in partnerships like CAN Health, enables LifeLabs to be at the forefront of emerging innovations to drive positive patient outcomes as well as system-wide benefits,” said Charles Brown, President and CEO at LifeLabs “We are excited to tap into the CAN Health community whilst leveraging our expertise, technology, influence and compassion to enable remarkable health outcomes for Canadians.”

“We are thrilled to be partnering with LifeLabs,” said Dr. Dante Morra, Founder and Chair of CAN Health Network. “This collaboration is a unique opportunity to work with Canada’s leading medical laboratory, expand successful Canadian technology solutions, and shape the future of health care.”

The CAN Health Network has supported over 70 Canadian health-tech companies from coast-to-coast since its inception.

About LifeLabs

LifeLabs is Canada’s leading provider of laboratory diagnostic information and digital health connectivity systems, enabling patients and healthcare practitioners to diagnose, treat, monitor and prevent disease. We are a committed innovator in supporting Canadians to live healthier lives, operating Canada’s first commercial genetics lab, and the country’s largest online patient portal, with more than 8 million Canadians receiving their results online. LifeLabs has been named one of Canada’s Best Employers (2021, 2022 and 2023) and Best Employers for Diversity (2022, 2023 and 2024) by Forbes, named by BrandSpark as the Most Trusted Brand in medical diagnostic services voted by Canadians (2023 and 2024) and recognized for having an award-winning Mental Health Program from Benefits Canada. Learn more at lifelabs.com.

About CAN Health Network:

The CAN Health Network is a federally funded national organization working to introduce more Canadian innovation into Canada’s health system. The Network works with leading Canadian health care providers – referred to as Edges – to scale Canadian technology companies across Canada and beyond. By partnering Canadian companies directly with health care operators, CAN Health enables these companies and their solutions to be rapidly validated, procured and scaled across the Network. Learn more at canhealthnetwork.ca.

LifeLabs Indspire Scholarship Winner: Christina Tsuil-menak

“I want to be a voice for those who can’t speak up. With my skills and knowledge, I hope to make a difference, even if it’s just with one person.” -Christina Tsuil-menak

For Christina Tsuil-menak, winning the LifeLabs Indspire Scholarship is more than just a personal achievement; it’s a testament to her strength, commitment to her community, and the power of believing in yourself.

As a member of the St’uxwtéws (Bonaparte First Nation), part of the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council of the Secwépemc (Shuswap) people, Christina’s journey into healthcare has been deeply influenced by her cultural roots and personal experiences. “Being the second eldest of four siblings, caregiving was always a part of my role,” she reflects. “When I had my own kids, everything just made sense. I love working with people, building relationships, and seeing them achieve their wellness goals. It’s a gift to be a nurse.”

Christina’s path to becoming a registered nurse (RN) has been challenging. As a single mother of two, balancing her studies with raising her children has required immense dedication and perseverance. “My kids are my biggest supporters. They’re the reason I do everything I do,” she says. “Sometimes it’s exhausting, but we’re a close family. We support each other and learn from each other.”

Her determination to enter nursing began years ago, but life had other plans. “I’ve been trying to get into the nursing program for over a decade, but life got in the way,” Christina explains. Eight years ago, she first heard about Indspire, and although her initial application was unsuccessful, she didn’t give up. “These awards make such a difference because someone is saying, ‘We believe in you, and we want to support you.’ I wouldn’t be successful today without Indspire or anyone who has had faith in me.”

Now in her fourth year at the University of Victoria, Christina is on the cusp of achieving her dream of becoming a public health nurse. “The biggest ‘aha’ moment for me was when my daughter was born, and the public health nurse who came to our home inspired me. I wanted to be her,” she recalls. “Eighteen years later, during my summer clinical, I had the best experience of my life in public health. It’s all come full circle.”

Christina’s impact extends beyond her academic and professional achievements. She is passionate about advocating for Indigenous communities and addressing the ingrained racism she sees in the healthcare system. “I want to be a voice for those who can’t speak up. With my skills and knowledge, I hope to make a difference, even if it’s just with one person. If we find like-minded people, I’m certain we can make change happen.”

Looking ahead, Christina hopes to inspire other Indigenous students to pursue careers in healthcare. Her advice? “Get into school sooner rather than later. Ensure you love what you do because you’ll spend so much time doing it. And stay connected with your culture—it will sustain you through the tough times.”

As Christina prepares to graduate and embark on her career as an RN, she reflects on what she’s most proud of: her children. “My daughter is a fierce advocate, and my son is a beautiful human who loves nature. They are my greatest achievements,” she says with a smile.

Christina’s story is of strength, dedication, and the unwavering belief that one person can make a difference. With the support of the LifeLabs Indspire Scholarship, she is well on her way to doing just that.

By empowering students like Christina, LifeLabs contributes to the growth and development of future healthcare leaders within Indigenous communities. Our partnership with Indspire makes the path to education more accessible, fostering leaders who will change their lives and countless others within their communities.

2023 – 2024 LifeLabs Indspire Scholarship Winners:

Hunter Limin from Sheguiandah First Nation– Health Sciences

Ryann Moskal from Métis Nation of British Columbia – Kinesiology

Kale Allison from Union Bar First Nation– Biomedical Sciences

Christina Tsuil-menak from St’uxwtéws (Bonaparte First Nation)– Health Sciences

LifeLabs to Honour National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with Educational Initiatives and Community Support

Vancouver, B.C., Toronto, ON, September 25, 2024– On September 30, LifeLabs will pause operations to recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. This day honours the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families, and Indigenous communities while encouraging dialogue on the lasting impact of these schools.

Throughout September, LifeLabs employees participated in educational activities to foster a deeper understanding of the history and legacy of residential schools. These initiatives reflect our commitment to supporting Indigenous communities and raising awareness among its team members.

“As we observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we remain focused on building upon our strong foundation of education and community support,” said Charles Brown, President and CEO of LifeLabs. “We recognize the importance of learning, reflecting, and standing with Indigenous Peoples to create a better future for all.”

LifeLabs has taken several steps this month to mark this day of reflection. Operations will be closed on September 30 in recognition of the day, and we are continuing our partnership with Indspire, a charity that supports the education of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students through scholarships. Employees are encouraged to engage with educational resources shared internally, wear orange shirts in solidarity, and share personal reflections on the significance of this day.

LifeLabs is dedicated to uplifting Indigenous voices and supporting ongoing efforts toward healing and reconciliation. To learn about LifeLabs’ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives, visit our website. /about-us/diversity-equity-inclusion/

LifeLabs Announces 2024 Family Scholarship Winners

Toronto, ON / Vancouver, B.C. September 19, 2024— LifeLabs, Canada’s leading medical diagnostic laboratory, is pleased to announce the 2024 LifeLabs Family Scholarship winners. This annual program provides scholarships to the dependent children of LifeLabs employees to support their post-secondary education. The scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership, extracurricular activities, volunteering, employment, and an essay on teamwork and inclusivity. LifeLabs Family Scholarship highlights LifeLabs’ commitment to supporting future generations.

LifeLabs awarded ten $2,000 scholarships this year, alongside one additional $2,000 scholarship provided by The Co-operators, a partner dedicated to community support.

“At LifeLabs, we believe in the power of education to transform lives,” said Charles Brown, President and CEO of LifeLabs. “These scholarships are one way we can invest in the future of our employees’ families, helping the next generation of leaders and innovators achieve their goals.”

This year’s recipients across Canada have demonstrated outstanding leadership, community involvement, and academic excellence. We are honoured to support these talented individuals as they embark on their educational journeys.

British Columbia Recipients

Ramya Shah, Richmond, B.C. — University of British Columbia, Major: Science

Ramya’s leadership in youth initiatives, particularly in his school’s New Faces Leadership program, and his focus on biotechnology and sustainability have marked him as a standout. Ramya is the son of Diplai Shah, a Lab Assistant at LifeLabs.

Udayvir Randhawa, Surrey, B.C. — Ace Community College, Program: Harmonized Electrical Foundation

Founder and President of his school’s Chess and STEM clubs, Udayvir has also volunteered extensively with the City of Surrey and the SGL Charitable Society. He is the son of Mandeep Randhawa, a Laboratory Operations Supervisor at LifeLabs.

Mara Dirlau, Pitt Meadows, B.C. — McGill University, Major: Mechanical Engineering

Mara led her volleyball team to multiple championships as captain and has been actively involved in school leadership and the arts. She is the daughter of Laura Dirlau, a Lab Assistant at LifeLabs.

Joven Gill, Surrey, B.C. — University of Northern British Columbia, Major: Health Sciences

Joven’s leadership in running a youth chess program and his volunteer work in a community kitchen emphasize his commitment to service. He is the son of Pardeep Gill, a Client Services Coordinator at LifeLabs.

Ontario Recipients

Zara Rehman, Milton, ON — Toronto Metropolitan University, Major: Business Technology Management

Zara led GenGreen, promoting sustainable living, and has excelled in music. She is the daughter of Neelam Rehman, a Lab Patient Technician at LifeLabs.

Dev Pandya, Brampton, ON— McMaster University, Major: Arts & Science

Dev has served as student president and valedictorian, volunteering with various community organizations. He is the son of Panula Shukla, a Medical Lab Technologist at LifeLabs.

Faith Tong, Mississauga, ON — University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University, Major: Business Administration and Computer Science

Faith co-founded the East Asian Student Association and has been a key leader in DECA and her church community. She is the daughter of Whee-May Chee, a Sourcing Process Support Specialist at LifeLabs.

Darshee Solanki, Brampton, ON — University of Toronto, Major: Computer Science

Darshee has supervised summer camps, tutored math, and participated in clubs like Model UN and Computer Club. She is the daughter of Alpa Solanki, a Lab Technician at LifeLabs.

Kavya Patel, Scarborough, ON — Wilfrid Laurier University, Major: Business Administration

Kavya co-founded the Gujarati Student Association and served as Vice-President of Model UN. She is the daughter of Pinal Patel, a Lab Patient Technician at LifeLabs.

Maheen Zaidi, Mississauga, ON — McMaster University, Major: Life Science

Maheen has been active in the Math Club and public speaking, and she volunteers extensively in her community. She is the daughter of Erum Zaidi, a Lab Technician at LifeLabs.

John Dcunha, Mississauga, ON — Toronto Metropolitan University, Major: Mechanical Engineering

John’s mentoring in Taekwondo and involvement in athletics and community service highlight his leadership skills. He is the son of Mary Dsilva, a Lab Technician at LifeLabs.

LifeLabs is proud to support these outstanding students, and we look forward to their continued success.

LifeLabs Celebrates Seventh Consecutive Win as the Only Canadian Company and Sole Laboratory in North America Recognized by Practice Greenhealth

TORONTO, ON, Sept. 17, 2024 – LifeLabs, the leading medical laboratory in Canada, is proud to announce that it has received the Practice Greenhealth Partner for Change Award for the seventh consecutive year.

This award acknowledges LifeLabs’ exceptional commitment to environmental sustainability and significant progress across its International Reference Laboratory (IRL) and Burnaby Reference Laboratory (BRL) locations in 2023.

Practice Greenhealth, a leading membership and networking organization for sustainable healthcare, provides environmental solutions to hospitals and health systems throughout the United States. The Greenhealth Partner for Change Award recognizes superior performance in environmental sustainability, highlighting comprehensive sustainability programs and activities, including substantial advancements in mercury elimination.

LifeLabs stands out as the only Canadian organization and the sole laboratory in North America to receive this prestigious award. This consistent recognition underscores LifeLabs’ dedication to fostering a healthier and more sustainable future for Canada.

“In a shifting health care landscape, a focus on sustainability can help build resilience while better protecting the health of patients and the community,” said Gary Cohen, Practice Greenhealth founder. “LifeLabs demonstrates the kind of leadership, innovation, and performance that can drive the entire health sector toward more environmentally responsible practices.”

Over the years, LifeLabs has implemented numerous initiatives to enhance its environmental stewardship, including:

Investing in updated ozone treatment systems at the Belleville, Sudbury, and Thunder Bay Regional labs to ensure cleaner water returns to the public system.
Launching a multidisciplinary “Sustainability Squad” to drive green initiatives.
Significantly increasing waste diversion through donations and reuse.
Enhancing sustainability collaborations with vendors and initiating a Sustainable Procurement Program.
Expanding environmental footprint tracking to cover all LifeLabs Patient Service Centres (PSCs) and regional labs, monitoring water, waste, energy, and electricity usage.

“We are incredibly proud to be recognized by Practice Greenhealth for the seventh consecutive year,” said Charles Brown, President and CEO of LifeLabs. “This award reflects our commitment to environmental sustainability and the hard work of our dedicated team. As the only Canadian company and the sole laboratory in North America to receive this recognition, we are inspired to continue building a healthier, more sustainable future for our communities.”

LifeLabs is committed to advancing its sustainability efforts through innovative and impactful initiatives. Our campaigns focus on reducing our carbon footprint, enhancing resource efficiency, and promoting eco-friendly practices across all operations. Our employees actively participate in these initiatives and embrace sustainable practices in their daily work. These collective efforts are vital in driving meaningful change and building healthier, more sustainable communities for future generations.

To learn more about this award, please visit Practice Greenhealth.