A new automation track - one of the UK’s largest and most complex tracks for testing pathology samples - is being installed at the Centre for Laboratory Medicine (CfLM) at St James’s University Hospital in Leeds.
Part of an extensive remodelling of pathology services across the region, the new cutting-edge equipment is a key element to provide faster turnaround times with less hands-on time required. As well as supporting improvements in diagnosis and treatment for patients, the new automated technologies will help to meet the growing demand for specialist care.
The new Siemens Healthineers Aptio automation track will enhance the CfLM’s workflow efficiencies by connecting a greater range of analysers. A single entry point for samples, next to the pneumatic tube network, will help ensure an efficient and accurate delivery of samples.
And a far greater number of analysers are now connected, via the new automated track, which can automatically distribute samples between the different analysers, rather than moving samples manually - reducing potential delays in the testing and reporting of results. The system also allows for critical samples to be analysed while the system is operating, without interrupting routine sample testing.
The WASPLab, from Copan, empowered by bioMerieux, provides the latest generation of pre-analytical automation for high quality processing of swabs and urine samples, combined with digital imaging and artificial intelligence (AI) capability that helps to streamline analysis of bacterial growth.
The two new WASPLab lines installed at the CfLM provide increased capacity and support improved productivity and more optimised and efficient laboratory workflows to improve the turnaround time for testing of patient samples.
The newly equipped facility is part of the West Yorkshire and Harrogate Pathology Network, formed through collaboration with West Yorkshire Association of Acute Trusts (WYAAT) and will support the delivery of pathology services across the region.
This regional partnership will enable the delivery of innovative testing and diagnostics, using the newly installed advanced equipment to generate results faster and create a more consistent process for all patients no matter where they live across the region. The new automation equipment is a key element of the partnership approach for pathology services across West Yorkshire and Harrogate.
The facility will also become home to some pathology services from Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust as part of a wider regional pathology services transformation programme.
Jenny Ehrhardt, Director of Finance and Senior Responsible Officer for the Building the Leeds Way Programme at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said: “Our newly installed equipment means the facility is now one step closer to driving improvements in the way we diagnose patients, not just in Leeds but for those living right across the region. By consolidating services and scaling up activity at one central facility and linking certain specialities, we will be able to share expertise across services and create a regional pathology centre of excellence.
“Our long-term vision is to deliver an improved, cost effective and enhanced diagnostic service for patients across West Yorkshire and Harrogate and this new equipment and state-of-the-art facilities will help to meet the growing regional demand for specialist treatment and care.”