Today's media speculation about a major provider change in the Auckland Community Laboratories market is unfounded, says Pat Snedden, chair of the Auckland regional DHBs.

As part of options we have exploring there have been discussions with both Labtests and Diagnostic Med Lab (the former provider) about the shifting from Labtests to Diagnostic Medlab of some volumes amounting to less than 10% of the business. These discussions have been open and collaborative between all three parties but have yet to reach any contractual conclusion or be signed off by Boards.

There will be no further comment until Boards have a chance to review and decide on any proposals put to them.