The South Eastern Trust is shining a light on the vital work of laboratory staff at the Ulster Hospital to mark National DNA Day, recognising the often unseen role they play in patient care.
From confirming diagnoses to guiding treatment plans, Biomedical Scientists and Laboratory Technicians carry out essential work analysing samples, decoding genetic information and ensuring accurate, timely results that clinicians and patients rely on every day.
South Eastern Trust, Head of Biomedical Science, Neil Kirkpatrick explained, “Just one single DNA change can alter the shape of our red blood cell from a circle to a crescent.
“In the Haematology Lab we look at the genetic markers for different Blood Cancers and disorders.
“Over in the Blood Bank we understand the genetics behind your blood group and we match this to the right patient, to the right product.”
Neil shared how it is, “Not just the ‘ABO’ blood groups that many people think that there are. In actual fact there are 48 recognised different blood group systems.”
Neil continued, “The genetic markers for different types of Leukaemia and blood disorders can help us diagnose conditions and determine what treatment a patient receives.
“In the Labs we are a bit behind the scenes, so it is really good to let people see what we do and how we help determine a patient’s path of treatment.”