Can digital pathology help tackle NHS staff shortages?

Digital pathology systems are already changing how pathologists and histology labs work, delivering benefits throughout the healthcare system.

The Ellis Fischel Cancer Center at the University of Missouri oversees oncology treatment decisions for four speciality tumour boards. Since 2018, the centre has used Roche’s digital solution to support decision-making and document management.6 The new digital solution transferred the work of twelve people to one nurse navigator. Using the latest digital platform has cut overall staff preparation time by 50% and saved the four tumour boards $300,000.4,5

The new digital solution proved to be especially useful during the COVID-19 pandemic. The system enabled clinicians to work remotely, continuing their life-changing work from a safe and convenient space. The Ellis Fischel Cancer Center team replaced outdated, paper-based processes with digital solutions and is experiencing the benefits. As well as learning new ways of working, the organisation has had to embrace new workflows, as Dr Richard Hammer, Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs, explains:

I would endorse more technology rather than less as ways to overcome some of the staff shortages. There are still some silly things that are being done, like faxing. People still fax paper. Why would you do that? And you have to walk over to the fax machine and get it when it can just show up on your computer. So, there's a lot of technology that can be implemented. Some of it is not so hard. It's really about change management and embedding these digital solutions into the day-to-day workflows of the hospital.

You can read more about how Roche’s navify platform is powering efficiencies at Ellis Fischel Cancer Center.

Unlocking digital pathology with a partner

The successful implementation of digital pathology systems is a partnership between the clinical organisation and a provider who can unlock the benefits. Organisations investing in digital pathology should seek a partner that provides a comprehensive and integrated solution that incorporates hardware, software, and support. Embedding change in histology laboratories is a challenge ­– but the NHS can’t continue to work in the same way it always has done. Digital health solutions like digital pathology can help manage complexity, reduce administrative costs, streamline workflows, and reduce the burden on skilled professionals.

While technology has enormous potential, there are clear boundaries. Digital pathology systems won't replace pathologists but can free them up to focus on the patients and the cases that demand the most attention. Digital systems like that used at Ellis Fischel Cancer Center enable pathologists to work flexibly, freeing them from the need to travel to a workplace, physically scan slides, and attend in-person multi-disciplinary meetings.

Digital pathology systems enable experts to focus on what matters most: providing and delivering the best possible care for patients.