Workflow improvement and financial gain after integration of high-throughput sample processing system with flow cytometer in a high-volume pathology laboratory: Results from a prospective comparative study using Lean principles.

Background: Highly efficient clinical laboratories are essential for monitoring many human illnesses. Ampath Laboratory Services, the largest pathology lab in South Africa, analyzes large numbers of peripheral blood samples for CD4 levels yearly.

Objective: To assess productivity and quality of a newer integrated automated solution, the BD FACSDuet™ Sample Preparation System/BD FACSLyric™ Flow Cytometer using conventional assessment methods and Lean concepts.