Search

Syndromic panels have allowed clinical microbiology laboratories to rapidly identify bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites and are now fully integrated into the standard testing practices of many clinical laboratories. To maximize the benefit of syndromic testing, laboratories must implement strict measures to ensure that syndromic panels are being used responsibly. This article discusses commercially available syndromic panels, the benefits and limitations of testing, and how diagnostic and laboratory stewardship can be used to optimize testing and improve patient care while keeping costs at a minimum., Competing Interests: Disclosure J.D. Bard is a consultant for BioFire Diagnostics and Accelerate Diagnostics and is involved in clinical trials activities with BioFire Diagnostics, Luminex Corporation, DiaSorin Molecular, Applied BioCode. E. McElvania receives speaking fees, consulting fees, and research support from BD., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The first clinical microbiology laboratory in the United States adopted total automation for bacteriology processing in 2014. Since then, others have followed with installation of either the BD Kiestra TLA or the Copan WASPLab. This article discusses commercially available automated systems in the United States; why automation is needed; and quality improvements, efficiency, and cost savings associated with automation. After learning how these systems are used, gains and losses experienced, and how one can afford the most expensive equipment ever purchased for clinical microbiology laboratories, the question is, how can one afford not to purchase one of these microbiology automation systems?, (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)