N.Y. Public Health Law § 570: Declaration of policy and statement of purpose

§ 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.