Wichita State University’s Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory (MDL) is expanding its role beyond COVID-19 testing to improve health care services. The lab is focusing on three main areas: 

1. Microbiology Services: Collaborating with small, rural hospitals to process microbiology specimens, ensuring timely diagnostic services. 

2. Technical Consulting: Providing support to small hospitals and clinics to help them achieve certification for operating their own labs. 

3. Pathology Partnership: Partnering with Southcentral Pathology to enhance local pathology services. 

These initiatives improve health care access and quality while offering hands-on training for students, preparing them for careers in health care. MDL is CLIA-certified, meaning it meets high standards for laboratory testing. With new clients and partnerships, MDL aims to provide valuable learning opportunities for students, helping them gain experience in laboratory processes. Since its launch in 2020, MDL has become a key resource for Kansas, supporting the region’s health care needs and workforce development.

“Wichita State’s commitment to improving the health and wellness of our community is at the heart of everything we do. The work being done at the MDL is a direct result of that focus, ensuring that underserved and rural areas have access to critical diagnostic services while also providing students with hands-on experiences that prepare them for tomorrow’s health care challenges,” said Wichita State President Rick Muma.