National Laboratory for HIV Reference Services

The National Laboratory for HIV Reference Services (NLHRS) is committed to supporting Canadian public health laboratory activities by providing high-quality serological and molecular reference testing for HIV and HTLV. This includes the testing of ‘difficult to diagnose’ samples under an ISO 15189-accredited standard, serving provincial, national, and international partners. The laboratory promotes excellence in diagnostic quality through the provision of external quality assurance programs for HIV and HTLV, as well as the ongoing evaluation of new assays and technologies to enhance overall testing performance.

The laboratory also leads a dried blood spot (DBS) based testing program for HIV, hepatitis C (HCV), hepatitis B, and syphilis. It supports the implementation of DBS testing initiatives across the country to improve access to STBBI testing for populations facing barriers to conventional phlebotomy-based services. Supports include the provision of training for DBS sample collection and the administration of DBS-based proficiency testing programs. The DBS testing modality is also used to support federal surveillance and research initiatives, and the laboratory is actively involved in expanding the DBS testing menu to include additional STBBIs.

The NLHRS remains committed to providing reliable leadership, expertise, and assistance to both internal and external stakeholders.