How is a laboratory classified as clinical, anatomical, or molecular?

A laboratory is classified as clinical, anatomical, or molecular primarily based on its function. This classification reflects the specific purposes and types of analyses each laboratory performs.

Clinical laboratories focus on diagnosing diseases through tests on bodily fluids such as blood and urine. They conduct various chemical, microbiological, and hematological tests to provide critical data for patient management.

Anatomical laboratories, on the other hand, involve the examination of tissue samples (histopathology) and involve processes like biopsies to identify diseases at a cellular level. This typically includes studies of cancer and other conditions affecting tissues.

Molecular laboratories specialize in analyzing molecules within cells, primarily focusing on DNA, RNA, and proteins to assist in diagnosing and managing diseases at a genetic level. This can include genetic testing, biomarker analysis, and infectious disease testing.

While other factors such as ownership, service capabilities, and institutional structures might influence laboratory operations, the classification is fundamentally tied to the laboratory's functional focus. Each type serves distinct roles in healthcare, ensuring that patient care is addressed through the appropriate testing method.