Histology labs are in a unique position to help bring the promise of healthcare innovations to patients by streamlining the care pathway at the point of diagnosis.1,2 However, with the surge in cancer caseloads, labs are challenged more than ever to provide fast, consistent, reproducible results from the lab to the pathologists to the physicians and their patients. Labs also need to help protect staff from hazardous material and address tightening sustainability standards - all as efficiently as possible.
Efficiency starts with usability and workflow
The way a histology lab team interacts with its slide staining system largely influences efficiency. Implementation of newer, more advanced systems with automated technology can help get IHC/ISH patient tissue samples to pathologists faster. In turn, results to clinicians are delivered quicker so doctors and patients can have the answers they need to take appropriate action. Consider your lab: Do histotechnologists have to move back and forth between instruments to learn what’s needed next? Does a queue form at the host computer to start a slide run? An automated IHC/ISH slide staining instrument that has multiple options for interaction can help mitigate this situation. In addition to the regular host terminal, a touchscreen on the instrument and remote access from an authorized computer can help improve workflow efficiency and flexibility. It allows the instrument to be operated from multiple touchpoints, not just the host computer. Additionally, it can enable the ability to monitor inventory levels and restock from a remote computer.
Every second saved can add up to gains in productivity and value delivered
Improving operational efficiencies as well as reducing workflow demands with advanced systems helps free up staff for other, more critical tasks.3 This can translate into added value tasks that enable faster turnaround times so physicians more quickly get the results needed to effectively manage their patients.
Features of these advanced systems extend to seemingly simple but powerful performance enhancers. Such examples include an advanced touchscreen with larger icons and text, a retractable work surface that makes it easier to prepare slide runs, or a light bar on the instrument to indicate the next steps - which is visible from across the room. Simplifying inventory management with color-coded bulk bottles, minimizing downtime through a slide stain drawer design that makes loading faster, and even the ability to customize reports for printing all save precious time and may add up to significant productivity benefits.
