Evaluating the Cost-Benefit of Automation in Laboratories
Author Information
Author(s): Thomas M. Craig
Primary Institution: Clinical & Instrument Systems Division, E. I. du Pont de Nemours & Company, Inc.
Hypothesis
Automation in clinical laboratories can reduce costs and improve efficiency.
Conclusion
Automation can lower the cost per patient test and improve laboratory efficiency, benefiting the overall hospital system.
Supporting Evidence
- Automation reduced the total cost per reportable test in all three hospitals studied.
- Quality control and the number of tests repeated were reduced to a third of their former level with automation.
- Laboratory productivity increased significantly, allowing for more tests to be processed with the same staff.
Takeaway
Using machines in labs can save money and help doctors get test results faster, which means patients can go home sooner.
Methodology
The study evaluated cost savings and efficiency improvements in three small hospitals before and after implementing automation.
Limitations
The study is based on a limited number of small hospitals, which may not represent larger institutions.
Participant Demographics
Three small hospitals in the US.
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