As world-leading providers to microbiologists across the globe, we are often asked, ‘Is Total Laboratory Automation the future of microbiology?’. We have seen automation seep into a number of industries, causing concern over the security of workforces.
In this blog we not only answer ‘Is Total Laboratory Automation the future of microbiology’ but will also explore what this may look like and address those valid concerns.
The need for speed and efficiency in modern labs is ever-increasing. It has become impossible for humans alone to maintain the rate of production needed in successfully run microbiology labs.
What’s more, the rate at which we are achieving scientific breakthroughs in microbiology is astounding. Take the COVID-19 pandemic as a clear example of the efficiency of modern labs. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was established at an unprecedented speed, saving thousands of lives and relieving serious pressure on global healthcare systems.
Total Laboratory Automation (TLA) offers a solution to meeting the demand put on microbiologists. Implemented in labs across the globe, automated systems can perform, with unbeatable accuracy, highly repetitive tasks.
A single robotic device can consolidate the control of multiple analytical instruments, as opposed to multiple human operators. TLA allows labs to minimise the risk of human error, streamline operations, optimise time, and reduce their overall expenses. It does this without sacrificing quality and accuracy- and if anything, enhances that too.
Matching the rising demand for diagnostics is a key consideration for microbiology labs around the world. As our global population increases, so does the number of diagnostic tests needed for routine and specialised microbiological analysis.
Furthermore, as the rate of emerging infectious diseases continues to rise, so does the demand for rapid microbial testing.
Looking ahead to the future of microbiology, Total Laboratory Automation can improve the productivity of labs at a lower capacity workforce. As the workload for laboratories steadily increases, the existing laboratory workforce cannot maintain the volume of service without automation.
Many have raised concerns about robotic devices removing job opportunities in microbiology. However, as you learn more about ‘Is total laboratory automation the future of microbiology?’, we hope to debunk that myth.
By reducing the need for repetitive manual labour, TLAs offer more opportunities to microbiologists. Human input can be applied more effectively in labs, leading to the redefinition of microbiologist job roles.
TLAs also help speed up processes such as culture analysis, susceptibility testing, and result reporting, which is crucial for time-sensitive diagnosis. For infections in immunocompromised patients, any solution that prevents severe outcomes is valuable to consider.
Before implementing laboratory automation, labs should do an analysis of existing workflows, to identify where automation could be used to make the biggest improvements. This also helps to clarify what your goals are after implementing TLAs, such as improving accuracy or reducing turnaround time. In the long term, you can use this to monitor the success of the investment.
Total Laboratory Automation systems tend to be large and may therefore require some readjustments to your lab facilities space. Also, along with implementing TLA, you might need to upgrade your current electrical systems and other relevant infrastructures.
For efficient data handling, reporting, and traceability, you should consider integrating your current LIS. This will mitigate any disruptions or potential loss of data.
Implementing TLA systems will require thorough training for lab personnel, which could put a short hold on daily operations. Once installed, there is no doubt the time invested in training will be made up, but it remains something to consider.
There may be some hesitation amongst the team when it comes to automating lab processes. Addressing their concerns about job security, and how it will impact their role, and responsibilities will be crucial to maintaining engagement and productivity.
So, to answer your question, ‘Is Total Laboratory Automation the future of microbiology?’, in short, the answer is yes.
As we have acknowledged in this blog, there are clear concerns about how this will impact the microbiology workforce. However, Total Laboratory Automation is an opportunity to alleviate strenuous pressures on your workforce and enhance productivity.
Pro-Lab Diagnostics is a leading manufacturer and supplier of laboratory equipment, used for microbiology and immunodiagnostics. For over 50 years, we have supported the hidden healthcare sector and have distributors across the globe. Find out more about us here.
The NEO Sample Manager was designed for laboratories and hospitals to meet the impossible demand on microbiology labs, by providing complete, reliable storage management of biological samples.
We have also recently launched a new range of Bacteriology automation for UK labs, in partnership with i2a. This is the biggest step Pro-Lab has taken toward Total Laboratory Automation and we look forward to seeing where this collaboration takes us.
If you would like to know more about why we think Total Laboratory Automation is the future of microbiology or how we can support your lab, please get in touch. You can call +44 (0)151 353 1613, email us at uksupport@pro-lab.com, or fill in our contact form, and a member of the team will be in touch as soon as possible.
