Hamad Medical Corporation’s Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology in Doha, Qatar is making history as the first laboratory in the Middle East and outside of Europe to achieve the Green and Sustainable Medical Laboratories certification from the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM). This prestigious certification adds to the department’s already impressive list of international accreditations, including those from the College of American Pathologists, the American Association of Blood Banks, the Joint Commission International, and the American Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics.
In alignment with Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy, which emphasizes a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future, HMC’s DLMP pursued the Green Labs certification. Dr. Einas Al Kuwari, Chairperson of the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at HMC, proudly announced that the Green Labs certification has been awarded to all major specialties within HMC’s laboratories, including Clinical Chemistry, Microbiology, Hematology, Anatomic Pathology, Immunology, Cellular Therapy, Diagnostic Genomics, and Transfusion Medicine Services.
Dr. Al Kuwari stressed the importance of healthcare organizations making strides towards environmentally friendly and sustainable policies to contribute to a healthy and sustainable environment. The Green Labs certification criteria included the management of hazardous chemicals, energy efficiency, waste management, and water management. To support this initiative, a multidisciplinary team was formed from various HMC departments, including Hospitality, Environmental Services, Health Facilities Planning, Engineering, and Supply Chain Management. A sustainability committee was also established to ensure ongoing progress in this initiative.
The European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine is leading the laboratory medicine community towards carbon neutrality in line with the European Green Deal Investment Plan. The “Green Labs” certification aims to transform clinical laboratories into safe and sustainable spaces by reducing their environmental impact and minimizing the use of energy, water, hazardous chemicals, and waste without compromising healthcare quality. HMC’s DLMP’s green initiatives are focused on improving daily practices and optimizing resource use to ensure a sustainable healthcare system that provides high-quality services to patients.
Achieving the Green and Sustainable Medical Laboratories certification is a significant accomplishment for HMC, reinforcing its commitment to environmentally friendly practices and responsible resource management. By implementing best practices and transparently working towards sustainability, HMC is setting an example for other healthcare organizations to follow. With this recognition, HMC’s laboratories are solidifying their reputation as leaders in environmental sustainability and high-quality healthcare services, setting a new standard for laboratories in the Middle East and beyond.
