The Public Health Laboratory, S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control, formerly named the Bureau of Laboratories, is a multi-disciplinary, integrated source of diagnostic services including analytical support and consultation for physicians, private laboratories, hospitals, and county health departments. The Public Health Laboratory is prepared to assist in any national public health emergency. The Public Health Laboratory provides reference and confirmatory testing of environmental and clinical specimens using specialized laboratory methodologies by highly skilled laboratory scientists.

The S.C. Public Health Laboratory performs over 1 million tests each year in its specialty areas of Clinical Microbiology, Foodborne Pathogens, Mycobacteriology, Diagnostic Serology, Special Pathogens, Newborn Screening, and Analytical Chemistry to ensure public health and safety in South Carolina.

Mission

The mission of the Public Health Laboratory (PHL) is to provide specialized laboratory testing for accurate screening, diagnosis, prevention and surveillance of disease, foodborne illness, and congenital disorders to improve public health and the quality of life for the South Carolina community.

Lab Services Guide

The Lab Services Guide gives our clients information about the laboratory services available and provides a guide for collection, packaging and submission of specimens for analysis. This Services Guide is also available in unbound hard copy upon request. Notify the laboratory at 803-896-3897.

Emergency Response and Preparedness

As part of the DHEC's Emergency Preparedness Plan of Action for emergencies, the Public Health Laboratory is equipped and the staff is trained to respond and perform testing rapidly and effectively to a medical emergency natural disaster or Act of Bioterrorism and Chemical Terrorism. If the emergency occurs outside of regular working hours, personnel will be called back or work overtime as needed to provide laboratory support.

Jennifer F. Meredith, PhD, HCLD(ABB)
Laboratory Director
Public Health Laboratory
S.C. Dept. of Health & Environmental Control
Office: (803) 896-0966
Fax: (803) 896-0983
Connect: www.scdhec.gov