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The Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR) is coming to healthcare, and clinical labs are poised to be at its forefront. While the promise of the 5IR is immense, unlocking its full capabilities will require a foundational commitment to the innovations of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
In a recent article for Technology Networks,* our own Timea Zsiray, Vice President, General Manager of Automation, Clinical IT Innovation, Product and Program Management, shared her insights into this exciting evolution. Thomas Coulson, Senior Global Product Marketing Manager, sat down with Timea to dig deeper into the shift—and to explore how our philosophy of Advantaged Workflows can play a part.
The Rise of Intelligent Automation
TC: In the article, you point out that laboratory automation is moving from a focus on logistical task management to what you call intelligent automation: integrated platforms that connect sample handling with data analytics, decision support, and real-time operational management. What could this mean for laboratory workflows moving forward?
TZ: With intelligent automation, we will see (and are already seeing) laboratory teams expecting more than efficiency for efficiency’s sake. They will favor workflows that keep operations running smoothly, but also help their organizations accelerate both workflow and clinical decision making. That could be accomplished, for example, through machine learning capabilities that help prioritize samples, interpret complex data patterns, highlight anomalies, or even suggest next steps in diagnostic pathways.
This all aligns with the 4IR’s goals to introduce self-monitoring, predictive, and adaptable systems. It also aligns with our philosophy of Advantaged Workflows, which focus on processes and technologies that help advance clinical capabilities. To move from the 4IR to the 5IR, labs will need to do more than move samples through the queue quickly; they will need to maximize the utility of every sample.
Drivers Behind the Shift
TC: You’ve laid out some of the benefits labs will see in moving toward the 5IR—but why is the shift happening now?
TZ: There are several factors converging that make intelligent automation more important than ever. We’ve got a global shortage of medical laboratory technologists. We have aging populations dealing with chronic diseases, which is driving up testing volumes and complexity. And, certainly not least of all, we have a shift toward precision medicine to deliver more personalized care. That requires accurate, consistent, and data-rich laboratory operations.
One thing that isn’t changing is the value laboratorians deliver to clinicians and patients, day in and day out. As the conditions around them change, technology and processes need to adapt in order to give them the support they need. I would say there’s never been a better time to usher in automation, designed to help them level up their operations in the way that best suits each team.
Moving From Data Siloes to Data Systems
TC: In the article, you talk about the need for labs to manage more data than ever before. How do Advantaged Workflows factor in here?
TZ: When we talk about Advantaged Workflows, we’re describing a philosophy that combines the right technology, the right support, and the right insights to help labs elevate efficiency and decision-making. In order for labs to manage increasingly complex data, the need to invest in all three of these areas will be more important than ever. That doesn’t mean everyone needs to run out and purchase a brand-new laboratory information system today. It does, however, mean they should evaluate their technology investments through the lens of tomorrow’s data management needs, not just today’s.
I’m excited to see what the future will hold as we move from the fourth to the fifth industrial revolution. Our philosophy of Advantaged Workflows is all about embracing both operational efficiency and clinical effectiveness. That’s what it will take to reimagine healthcare in a time of rapid change—and that’s what’s so exciting about working in this field right now.
Read the Full Article for More
Head over to Technology Networks to read the full article, then explore how Advantaged Workflows are helping laboratorians power the moments that matter.
