§ 570. Declaration of policy and statement of purpose. The proper performance of clinical laboratory and blood banking services is a matter of vital concern, affecting the public health, safety and welfare. Clinical laboratories and blood banks provide essential public health services in aiding the health care provider by furnishing information invaluable to the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The improper performance of a laboratory procedure may induce an erroneous diagnosis or contribute to the selection of an inappropriate method of treatment, resulting in prolonged or unnecessary hospitalization, injury or even death. The protection of the people of this state requires affirmative action to insure that the performance of clinical laboratory and blood banking services meet high standards of public health care.

It is the purpose of this title to promote the public health, safety and welfare by requiring the licensure of clinical laboratories and blood banks, by establishing minimum qualifications for directors, and by requiring that the performance of all procedures employed by clinical laboratories and blood banks meet minimum standards accepted and approved by the department.