Core Lab
Facilities
The University of Kentucky Core Laboratory, located at UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital, provides comprehensive and state-of-the-art clinical diagnostic testing in support of patient care across UK HealthCare. The Core Lab plays a critical role in serving the needs of a Level 1 adult trauma center, Kentucky Children’s Hospital, and UK’s nationally recognized solid organ transplant, bone marrow transplant, and cancer care programs. With advanced automation and broad test capabilities, the Core Lab is integral to clinical decision-making throughout the health system, including the Markey Cancer Center—Kentucky’s only NCI-designated cancer center.
Faculty and Staff
Faculty
Amy Gewirtz, MD
Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis
Aaron Shmookler, MD
Coagulation
Wael Ibrahim, MD
Infectious Diseases
Ibrahim Choucair, PhD
Toxicology and Esoteric Immuoassays
Robert Maynard, PhD
Blood Gases
Staff
Amy Hardison, MHA, MLS (ASCP)
Associate Director, Core Laboratory
Jennifer Jenkins, MPH, MLS (ASCP)
Section Supervisor, Core Laboratory
Ingrid Vanrooyen, MLS (ASCP)
Section Supervisor, Core Laboratory
Jessica Hampton, MLS (ASCP)
Section Supervisor, Good Samaritan Laboratory
Education
The Core Laboratory is staffed by nationally certified Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLSs), who perform the complex testing that supports nearly every medical decision. MLSs hold a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or a related field, complete clinical training, and pass a national certification exam. Their expertise in areas like chemistry, hematology, and microbiology is critical to trauma, transplant, oncology, and critical care across UK HealthCare.