The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) is a dynamic, focused health service provider of cost-effective and professional laboratory medicine through competent, qualified professionals and state-of-the-art technology, supported by academic and internationally recognised research, training and product development to maximise healthcare delivery in South Africa. The NHLS is the largest diagnostic pathology service in South Africa with the responsibility of supporting the National and Provincial Department of Health in the delivery of healthcare. The NHLS provides laboratory and related public health services to over 80% of the population through a national network laboratories.