Laboratory Services Baseline Assessment and Gap Analysis

Because the New Mexico Environment Department lacks an in-house laboratory to sample for, test, and research emerging contaminants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), NMED utilizes external laboratories (e.g., state agency laboratories and private in- and out-of-state laboratories) for these services. However, this approach has limitations. For example, not all laboratory services are available; some laboratories require additional time and money to package and ship samples; and there are increased wait times for results compared to in-house laboratory services. To address these concerns, NMED selected ERG to identify process improvements and new approaches that could help them better address their laboratory needs and services.

ERG conducted a baseline assessment and gap analysis of NMED’s needs and existing state laboratory services to identify best practices, resources, and structures to improve those services. The assessment evaluated three options: continue contracting with existing outside laboratories but with process improvements; expand an existing state laboratory to increase capacity and services to meet NMED needs; and create and utilize an NMED in-house laboratory. To inform the baseline assessment, ERG conducted desktop research, interviewed NMED staff and external laboratory stakeholders, and developed and implemented an online survey to obtain input from out-of-state environmental agency laboratories. Based on the results of this research, ERG developed recommendations for NMED leadership to consider.