A new state-of-the-art diagnostic laboratory based in
Motootua is set to reduce the turnaround time of critical medical results from four to six
weeks to up to four days, reducing preventable deaths associated with sexual and
reproductive health conditions.
Launched on the 4 th of October 2023, the Samoa Diagnostic Medical Laboratory will
provide timely screening, early diagnosis, and treatment for the population of Samoa, with
a particular focus on women and underserved communities.
This facility was made possible through a partnership between the Australian
Government’s Business Partnerships Platform, the Samoa Family Health Association and
the Pacific Laboratory Specialists, with support from the Government of Samoa and the
International Planned Parenthood Federation Sub-Regional Office for the Pacific.
Ms Soraya McGinley, the Third Secretary from the Australian High Commission,
highlighted Australia’s commitment to working together with partner governments, local
organisations and key stakeholders in Samoa and across the region to support healthcare
initiatives that lifts communities, particularly women and girls.
“What underpins Australia’s support for initiatives such as this is our shared belief that
everyone, no matter their background or circumstance, deserves to have access to quality
and timely healthcare services,” said Ms. McGinley.
In his remarks to launch the new lab, Atoa Dr Glenn Fatupaito, the Deputy Director
General of the Ministry of Health spoke on behalf of the Government of Samoa in
highlighting how the new lab will contribute to the government’s work in delivering quality
healthcare to the Samoan people.
“With the introduction of state-of-the-art Liquid Based Cytology diagnostic services, we are
taking a significant leap forward in medical technology advancement that is not just about
rapid turn-around times, more accurate diagnoses, but also in the process enabling
clinicians to save lives,” said Atoa.
The services provided by the Samoa Diagnostics Medical Laboratory can be accessed by
women and patrons at the Samoa Family Health Association office located at Motootua
opposite the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital (formerly Loto Taumafai compounds).

Background Information
The Samoa Diagnostic Medical Laboratory (SDML) is dedicated to providing diagnostic services
for timely screening, early diagnosis, and treatment to the population of Samoa – with the focus of
women and underserved communities. The SDML was made possible by a partnership between
Samoa Family Health Association (SFHA), Pacific Laboratory Specialists (PLS), International
Planned Parenthood Federation Sub-Regional Office of the Pacific (IPPF SROP) and the
Australian Government through the Business Partnerships Platform. The partners have a common
goal of the early diagnosis of sexual and reproductive health conditions such as cervical cancer to
reduce preventable deaths.
Once launched it will be a fully functional laboratory equipped with advanced technology and
infrastructure that will enable important tests to be undertaken in Samoa, reducing the turnaround
time from 4-6 weeks to 3-4 days.
The laboratory includes essential equipment such as a fully automatic Liquid-Based Cytology
machine, DNA Extractor/HPV analyzer, Urine analyzer, IVD diagnostic Machine, Biochemistry
analyzer, Auto Hematology Analyzer, Serology kits, water distiller, Slide Storage Cabinet, Digital
imaging Microscopes, Biological Safety Cabinet, server, and IT infrastructure.
The establishment of this state-of-the-art facility empowers SDML to offer a comprehensive range
of diagnostic capabilities, including:
1. Liquid-based Cytology tests: These tests play a crucial role in capturing abnormal cells
associated with cervical cancer, enabling early detection and intervention.
2. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test: SDML will provide cervical cancer screening through
HPV testing, aiding in the identification of this prevalent and potentially life-threatening
condition.
3. In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) tests: SDML conducts a wide array of IVD tests to diagnose
various conditions such as Heart Failure, Myocardial Infarction, Liver Cancer, Prostate
Cancer, Tumor Markers, Diabetes Mellitus and COVID-19.
4. Biochemistry tests: SDML will offer comprehensive biochemistry tests to assess the
functioning of vital organs including the kidneys, liver, lipids, and pancreas.
5. Hematology tests: SDML will perform haematological tests to determine parameters such
as Red Blood Cell (RBC) count, White Blood Cell (WBC) count, haemoglobin level, platelet
count, and additional indicators like RBC distribution width, Mean Corpuscular Volume,
Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin, Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration, WBC
differential count (both in percentage and absolute value), Platelet Distribution Width,
Platelet Mean Volume, Large Platelet Cell Ratio, and Platelet criteria.
6. Serology Tests: SDML will also offer serological tests for infectious diseases such as
Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Hepatitis A, and Syphilis.
By leveraging these advanced diagnostic capabilities, the SDML aims to ensure efficient
screening, early diagnosis, and appropriate treatment for the population of Samoa, ultimately
contributing to improved health outcomes.