Specimen Collection Material Ordering Update – Implemented April 1, 2026
Announcements
1 April 2026
What’s Changing?
Effective April 1, 2026, PHO no longer provides specimen collection materials for routine clinical laboratory testing to most health care providers, including clinics, and laboratories. A reference list is available to help you identify potential sources for these or similar materials.
- Bordetella Pertussis kits (390052)
- Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae NAA testing kits (300316 and 300317)
- Gastric lavage collection kits for hospital clients only (390043)
Exempted Clients
A small number of exempt organizations can continue to receive specimen collection materials from PHO based on public health need, mandated roles, and operational considerations. These exemptions ensure PHO can continue to support outbreak response, remote communities, and specialized services. Exempt organizations include:
- Public health units and PHU‑operated clinics
- Northern nursing stations
- Correctional facilities
- Indigenous‑led clinics and organizations (e.g., Indigenous Health Authorities, Indigenous-led elder care organizations)
- Ontario Forensic Pathology Service
- Long‑term care or retirement homes with a suspected or confirmed outbreak
If you have received confirmation that your organization is exempt from this change, you can continue ordering specimen collection materials from PHO as usual. Complete all fields in the updated Requisition for Specimen Containers and Supplies form and submit it to your nearest PHO laboratory. Please ensure you are using the most current version of the requisition form. Bookmark the requisition link so you can always access the latest version. Using an outdated form may result in delays in processing or cancellation of your order.
Questions?
We value our partnership and are committed to ensuring a smooth transition.
If you have any questions, please contact PHO’s Laboratory Customer Service Centre
- Phone: 1-877-604-4567 (Mon–Fri: 7:30 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Sat: 8:00 a.m.–3:45 p.m.)
- Email: customerservicecentre@oahpp.ca
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