Before the LEAN principles could be applied it was necessary to analyse how efficient the blood sample processing was. The results revealed the need for a complete laboratory re-design.
After carefully considering many possible configurations for a serum work area (SWA) platform, from several suppliers, the department decided to partner with Roche, who offered the best automated solution for the size of their laboratory.
With MODULAR pre-analytics located close to the sample reception area, the laboratory now has three analytical processing lines consisting of two cobas 6000 platforms and one high throughput cobas 8000 platform. These are all linked to a highly efficient track system with a post-analytical module for automated sample storage and retrieval.
The solution is designed to ensure maximum efficiency within the laboratory and to deliver results at the earliest opportunity, with significant enhancement to the patient pathway always front of mind at Roche.
“Every sample that we process represents a patient waiting for a diagnosis, treatment, or to be told they are ok,” explains Service Manager, Chris Charlton. “As such the laboratory is entrusted with patient samples to deliver a high quality results at the earliest opportunity. We needed technology that can cope with varying workflow rates and volumes in order to ensure optimal analysis of our workload, so that each part of a request is fulfilled and available when the report is required.
“LEAN analysis of the workflow identified backlog points within our processes that were predominantly manual tasks.The introduction of Roche pre- and post-analytical modules has led to a reduction in manual errors and the removal of key bottlenecks within our system, which, in turn, has led to improved flow of samples.
“By deploying the cobas analytical solutions in a flexible and configurable way, the laboratory is able to stream work to the most appropriate platform in the most cost effective way, whilst meeting the required quality and turnaround times. The cobas 8000 platform allows the analysis of high volume tests to be performed at a rate that meets the required performance targets set within the laboratory. This, combined with the cobas 6000 platforms, permits the laboratory to optimise and standardise workflow streams. It enables intelligent routing of samples through the system in the most efficient manner without the need for human intervention. This has reduced manpower requirements, reduced quality defects and standardised turnaround times.”
For the Pathology Department at Gateshead, it was not just about the equipment. The analytical performance of the platforms and the breadth of available assays were important, but it was the entire design concept of the Roche solution and the ability to work in partnership towards a faster, more efficient service that helped them to realise their vision for a LEAN laboratory.
“I know that through working in partnership with Roche,” concludes Chris Charlton, “we will continue to develop and improve our laboratory through the systematic elimination of waste in all aspects of the process.”
After carefully considering many possible configurations for a serum work area (SWA) platform, from several suppliers, the department decided to partner with Roche, who offered the best automated solution for the size of their laboratory.
With MODULAR pre-analytics located close to the sample reception area, the laboratory now has three analytical processing lines consisting of two cobas 6000 platforms and one high throughput cobas 8000 platform. These are all linked to a highly efficient track system with a post-analytical module for automated sample storage and retrieval.
The solution is designed to ensure maximum efficiency within the laboratory and to deliver results at the earliest opportunity, with significant enhancement to the patient pathway always front of mind at Roche.
“Every sample that we process represents a patient waiting for a diagnosis, treatment, or to be told they are ok,” explains Service Manager, Chris Charlton. “As such the laboratory is entrusted with patient samples to deliver a high quality results at the earliest opportunity. We needed technology that can cope with varying workflow rates and volumes in order to ensure optimal analysis of our workload, so that each part of a request is fulfilled and available when the report is required.
“LEAN analysis of the workflow identified backlog points within our processes that were predominantly manual tasks.The introduction of Roche pre- and post-analytical modules has led to a reduction in manual errors and the removal of key bottlenecks within our system, which, in turn, has led to improved flow of samples.
“By deploying the cobas analytical solutions in a flexible and configurable way, the laboratory is able to stream work to the most appropriate platform in the most cost effective way, whilst meeting the required quality and turnaround times. The cobas 8000 platform allows the analysis of high volume tests to be performed at a rate that meets the required performance targets set within the laboratory. This, combined with the cobas 6000 platforms, permits the laboratory to optimise and standardise workflow streams. It enables intelligent routing of samples through the system in the most efficient manner without the need for human intervention. This has reduced manpower requirements, reduced quality defects and standardised turnaround times.”
For the Pathology Department at Gateshead, it was not just about the equipment. The analytical performance of the platforms and the breadth of available assays were important, but it was the entire design concept of the Roche solution and the ability to work in partnership towards a faster, more efficient service that helped them to realise their vision for a LEAN laboratory.
“I know that through working in partnership with Roche,” concludes Chris Charlton, “we will continue to develop and improve our laboratory through the systematic elimination of waste in all aspects of the process.”
Roche
www.roche.com
www.roche.com
