We are pleased to announce the successful installation of a new multi-disciplinary track in our laboratory – a major step forward in automation and operational efficiency.

This state-of-the-art system integrates Immunology and Virology standalone analysers with the existing Blood Sciences infrastructure, allowing all samples to be loaded through a single input. The track then automatically routes each sample to the appropriate analytical platform for testing, streamlining the entire diagnostic process.

The benefits of this innovation have been both immediate and impactful:

• Workforce efficiency: The automation has led to a reduction of 4 whole-time equivalent (WTE) staff posts, contributing to cost savings while maintaining high service quality.
• Improved turnaround times: The system enables faster processing of high sample volumes, helping us meet growing demand with increased speed and consistency.
• Reduced risk of human error: Automated sample handling and pipetting greatly reduce the potential for mistakes, improving the reliability of test results.
• Enhanced staff utilisation: By removing routine, manual steps from the workflow, biomedical scientists and laboratory staff are now able to focus their expertise on more complex and non-routine diagnostic work.
• Full traceability: The track ensures complete traceability of each sample from receipt to result, bolstering quality control and audit readiness.
• Improved safety: With less manual handling, there is a lower risk of exposure to biohazards and cross-contamination, enhancing the safety of our working environment.

This investment demonstrates BSPS' commitment to modernising our laboratory services to meet current and future healthcare needs. It reflects our focus on innovation, patient safety, and the optimal use of skilled professionals to deliver the highest quality diagnostic services.

We thank all staff involved in the implementation for their hard work and dedication in making this a success.