WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) -- The Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory at Wichita State University is expanding the scope of its work. The laboratory played a crucial role during the pandemic, providing testing services for the region. The lab will now work with small, rural hospitals to process their microbiology specimens, giving them timely access to diagnostic services. Microorganisms take at least 12-18 hours to grow. Smaller hospital labs often have to send their samples off to large reference labs, which can lead to even longer waits to confirm an infection or diagnosis. Walgreens to close 1,200 stores as US pharmacies struggle to define a new role Sarah Nickel, Associate Professor and Director of the Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, says time is often critical. "Especially in the aging population, UTI and pneumonia infections very quickly can spread to your bloodstream, and so if we don't get them on the right treatment quickly, they're at a disservice by not being able to get that diagnosis," says Nickel. The plan will also now offer consultation and professional services to help small hospitals and clinics maintain and achieve certification to operate their own diagnostic labs. In addition, the lab has secured a contract with Southcentral Pathology to handle its technical laboratory work. The university says the Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory is helping to fill a critical gap in the healthcare system and providing valuable hands-on training for students who plan to enter the medical field.