When Wellington SCL was established, referrers had the option to receive both electronic (HL7) and paper copies of laboratory results, and many chose to receive results in both formats.  This policy has been reviewed as we believe that paper copies have become outdated and are no longer necessary for the majority of referrers.

Electronic result delivery offers enhanced efficiency and security, ensuring quicker access to results while reducing the risks of delays and potential privacy breaches associated with paper handling. Additionally, the rising costs of providing paper-based results, including printing, handling, and delivery, have made this service financially unsustainable. Transitioning to electronic delivery not only addresses these operational challenges but also aligns with our commitment to reducing our environmental impact by lowering waste and conserving resources.

What you need to do:

• If you already have access to HL7 results and do not wish to receive paper copies of laboratory results, no action is required on your part. You will automatically stop receiving paper copies after 28 February 2025.
• If you do not have access to HL7 results and wish to receive your results electronically via email, please contact us at wlg.admin@awanuilabs.co.nz to arrange this setup.
• If you do want to continue receiving paper copies, a cost of $3.95 per result per patient episode will apply from 1 February 2025. To set up this service, please email us at melanie.mcfarlane@awanuilabs.co.nz by 28 February including the following information:
  • Your name
  • Doctor code(s) or department code(s) for which you wish to receive paper copies.
    • If you have multiple doctor codes, you can select a single workplace setting for paper copies. Please indicate “Paper copy of results required” in the email subject line to help us track your request efficiently.

Billing will commence from 1 March 2025, and invoices will be sent monthly.

For any additional feedback or questions about this process, please feel free to reach out to melanie.mcfarlane@awanuilabs.co.nz