Automation In Pre-Analytics

In India, the pre-analytical automation segment is in nascent stage, and most of the automation in this segment present is in the form of sample transport systems and sample sorter platforms. When we look at the statistics, it shows that 70 percent of the total error in the IVD laboratory happens mainly due to improper sampling, and in majority of the cases it is confined mainly to improper sample identification.

Even though the laboratories are upgrading their testing equipment with new generation fully automated systems, the primary sample collection is still done manually creating errors. When we look at the developed countries, the primary sampling is automated by sample labelling systems to ensure that the samples are traceable from the time of primary collection. These systems are called as tube labeler systems, which are connected to the HIS or LIS systems and is one of the reason for better turnaround time.

India has large population of clinical laboratories and still most of the testing is done on semi-automated platforms. Even in the laboratories where automation has reached at testing levels however the concept of automated tube labelling systems is not picked up in the country.

Currently the auto labelling solution is offered by few multinational companies which are not found to be affordable. These systems are purely import dependent and are with higher cost of hardware and consumables. At present the available tube labelling systems in India are bigger in size (floor standing models) and hence elude most of the laboratories because of the space constraints.

An affordable and compact system is the need of the day. With the advancement in electronics, imaging, information technology, and robotics, we have witnessed the launch of highly compact (table top) tube labelling platform in recent past. This innovative system is designed and developed by highly skilled scientists taking in consideration of the Indian scenario and is gaining momentum in the market. This system is highly affordable, with low recurring cost.

We believe that this indigenous tube labelling system is going to change the IVD market with error free reporting. This cost effective and compact sized tube labeller system will enable most of the laboratories based in India to have it and will attract export opportunities appreciation overseas land. It is expected that by the year 2020, from an installation base of less than 50 units, the tube labeller market in India will reach an installation base with more than 5000 units in operation.