WHEREAS, medical and treatment decisions often rely on timely and accurate test results; and
WHEREAS, laboratory professionals, including pathologists, medical laboratory scientists, cytotechnologists, histotechnologists, medical laboratory technicians, phlebotomists, and histologic technicians are highly trained specialists who perform and evaluate laboratory tests to detect and diagnose disease and monitor treatment; and
WHEREAS, dedicated clinical laboratory science practitioners maintain the highest standards and continually work to improve the quality of laboratory services; and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic further demonstrated the critical role of laboratory professionals in the response to a public health emergency; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina commends medical laboratory professionals for their significant contributions to the health and wellness of our state;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim April 18 – 24, 2021, as “MEDICAL LABORATORY PROFESSIONALS WEEK” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.