In Magdalena, science and public health have taken a giant leap. For the first time in the history of the Colombian Caribbean, The region has a medical laboratory with molecular biological diagnostic capacities.
“It is not just a modern and well-equipped building: it is a key tool to save lives and to solve health crises quickly and efficiently,” said Governor Rafael Martínez when handing over this new work.
This project, implemented with an investment of 10,232 million pesos from the general license fee system, It materialized after years of management.
Created during the pandemic under former governor Carlos Caicedo and completed by current governor Martínez, the lab represents a significant change for the department’s 1.3 million residents.
“This laboratory will be essential for the health of the region, even allowing the monitoring of the quality of the drinking water consumed by the people of Magdalena,” said former governor Caicedo, who was present at the event.
This is historic progress for the region. Finally, we have the necessary infrastructure to diagnose, investigate and quickly intervene against priority diseases
Rafael MartinezGovernor of Magdalena
“This is historic progress for the region. We finally have the necessary infrastructure to diagnose, investigate and quickly intervene against priority diseases,” said Governor Martínez, who also emphasized that the project not only it strengthens public health, but also research scientific in collaboration with local universities such as Magdalena and the Columbian Cooperative.
A laboratory that goes beyond numbers
Human stories and tangible progress are hidden behind the million dollar investment. During the pandemic, Magdalena faced serious difficulties diagnose diseases quickly, which delayed timely care and complicated the containment of outbreaks.
Automated equipment will enable reliable diagnostics. Photo:governorate
Today with state-of-the-art technological equipment such as thermocyclers, PCR cabinets, nucleic acid extraction systems and automated systems, the laboratory is ready to diagnose diseases such as dengue, monkey pox, Covid-19 and other respiratory viruses with accuracy and in record time.
María Rodríguez, bacteriologist from the laboratory, she comments enthusiastically: “I never imagined that we would have a laboratory with these capabilities in our region. Previously, many tests had to be sent to Bogotá or Barranquilla, which took several days. Now we can get results in a few hours.” , which is necessary to save lives.
First class quality and safety
The laboratory stands out not only for its technology, but also for the standards it meets. According to a recent National Institute of Health (INS) audit, it scored 82.9% in infrastructure and human talent and 85% in biosecurity. This ranks it among the best laboratories in the country.
“This place is a fortress in terms of biosecurity. Every detail has been designed to guarantee the protection of personnel and avoid any risk to the community,” explains Julián Méndez, head of laboratory security.
In addition, the space is prepared to face future pandemics and health emergencies with areas dedicated to epidemiological surveillance, research on emerging diseases and water quality monitoring in the 30 municipalities of Magdalena.
Dr. Natalia Sánchez, researcher of the university, states: “This lab is a dream come true. We now have the tools to develop research projects that were previously impossible. It’s a before and after for science in the region.”
The promise of a better future
The laboratory also has a direct impact on the quality of life of Magdalenians. According to Governor Rafael Martínez, the department’s network of 210 public and private laboratories will receive technical support and training to guarantee rapid and reliable diagnosis.
Governor Rafael Martínez during the inauguration of the laboratory. Photo:governorate
Residents are already sensing this change. Rosa Gutiérrez, a mother of three in Ciénaga, expresses her gratitude: “Knowing that we have this laboratory here gives us peace of mind. If any of my kids get sick, I know we will be able toQuickly find out what you have and get the help you need“.
First Caribbean Regional Molecular Biology Laboratory It is not only the pride of Magdalena, but also a model for other regions of the country.
“This is just the beginning,” says the governor. “Our goal is for Magdalena to become a national benchmark in public health and research. With this laboratory, we have shown that when there is will and management, historic changes are possible,” he said.
