February 16, 2022
Albertans are being asked to delay non-urgent blood testing due to a temporary shortage of disposable vials used to collect blood test samples across the province.
Supplies of the vials are tight globally due to ongoing shortages of medical-grade plastics, and AHS is experiencing a short-term supply shortage after a recent order was not filled by our primary supplier.
The shortage affects vials used for the most commonly ordered blood tests including Complete Blood Count (CBC), Complete Blood Count with Differential (CBCD), and Hemoglobin A1C (Hgb A1C). We are working with our vendors to have urgent shipments sent as soon as possible, and are investigating whether alternate supplies we have in stock may be used for these tests.
Alberta Precision Laboratories is communicating with physicians and partner organizations to notify them of the supply issue and asking for their assistance in limiting orders of non-urgent blood tests in order to conserve supplies until inventory levels are replenished in the coming weeks.
At this time, patients with outstanding lab test requisitions are also encouraged to consult their physicians to determine if their non-urgent blood tests could be safely delayed until further notice.
