Welcome to the Bermuda Hospitals Board

Introducing a New Automated Laboratory

The Pathology Department has recently upgraded some of its equipment and processes to achieve more accurate and timely results, with improved turnaround times. The new “automated laboratory” is also addressing staffing issues and will provide financial and performance improvements.

“Part of our new automated process included the acquisition of instruments used for chemistry testing, which are mirror images of each other,” explains Kathy Stephens, Pathology Manager. “They can perform chemistry tests such as glucose and immunoassay tests and thyroid function tests from one sample simultaneously. In addition, an automated tracking system consisting of five modules operates independently of the chemistry analyzers.”

The new equipment performs tasks previously undertaken by laboratory technologists, technicians and assistants. These new processes mean laboratory staff now perform fewer menial tasks and spend more time analyzing results and reviewing quality.

“Physicians are receiving patient results quicker and more consistently,” Kathy says. “Automation technology is becoming the standard in laboratories in other countries.”

Kathy says although change can be challenging and new instruments initially may seem intimidating, once staff use the equipment, they end up embracing it. “We are pleased the Pathology Department consistently achieves accreditation from Joint Commission International, which means we adhere to international best practice standards. We continually upgrade our processes and introduce state-of-the-art equipment, both of which assure the highest quality care for our patients.”