At a glance
CDC engages with the laboratory and testing community, provides reliable and timely laboratory testing during infectious disease outbreaks and harmful exposures, and prioritizes high-quality laboratory science so that we are ready to respond to health threats, anytime.
![Public health lab worker in personal protective equipment on a video call with a healthcare provider](/labs/media/images/2024/04/MicrosoftTeams-image-2.png)
Overview
![Public health lab worker in personal protective equipment on a video call with a healthcare provider](/labs/media/images/2024/04/OLSS-4th-module-and-CLSR-web-page-image.png)
Recent infectious disease outbreaks and public health emergencies highlighted the importance of laboratory diagnostic testing as a core capability of the U.S. public health system—especially at the beginning of emergency responses when there is a greater demand for laboratory testing.
![Laboratory Partners in Readiness and Response](/labs/media/images/2024/05/CLSR_Laboratory-System-Web-Graphic_Approved_no-shadow-002.png)
CDC demonstrates its commitment to laboratories by elevating and aligning laboratory support systems to focus on these key priorities:
Reshaping the future of laboratory readiness and response
- Interagency coordination and cross-cutting laboratory operation and systems support within CDC and beyond
Engagement with public and private-sector partners including the nation's clinical and public health laboratory systems and networks
- Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for Diagnostic Surge Testing Capacity for Public Health Emergencies
- Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA)
- Laboratory Response Network (LRN)