Microbiology

The department oversees multiple aspects of infectious diseases testing on all types of tissues and body fluids from hospital in-patients, out-patients, and satellite health facilities.  Diagnostic services are performed both on location as well as through referrals to other facilities and institutions of expertise.  In-house diagnostic services are offered in the areas of bacteriology, mycology, mycobacteriology, parasitology, and virology.  JHS laboratories participate in educational and training activities for the hospital Pathology Residency program.  Both laboratories work in close collaboration other hospital ancillary services such as the  Pharmacy’s Antimicrobial Stewardship Program and Infection Prevention and Control as well as contribute to the education and research activities of these divisions.  The laboratories also provide direct support to the clinical research activities of the Adult and Pediatric Division of Infectious Diseases.

The service is directed by Dr. Octavio Martinez. Dr. Martinez has been on the faculty of the University of Miami for over 40 years.  Board certified in Medical Microbiology, he works closely with the residency program and serves as an instructor in the medical student education program.