Total laboratory automation: fit for its intended purposes?

Abstract

Since the 1980s, automation has profoundly transformed clinical laboratory operations, enhancing efficiency, standardization, and throughput. This technological evolution has enabled laboratories to meet rising testing demands, address persistent workforce shortages, and control operational costs. Beyond analytical consolidation, significant progress has been made through the integration of pre-analytical and post-analytical phases, thereby improving the overall quality of the Total Testing Process (TTP). Despite the well-recognized benefits of Total Laboratory Automation (TLA) - notably improved worker safety and faster turnaround times - a number of limitations have emerged, particularly concerning operational challenges and the lack of evidence for clinical effectiveness. Future improvements should focus on the integration of pre-pre-analytical processes, miniaturization of testing platforms, consolidation of all laboratory medicine subspecialties, and enhanced data management. However, the most critical issue remains the limited evidence supporting the impact of TLA on key clinical outcomes - such as reduced length of stay in emergency departments and hospital wards, optimized diagnostic-therapeutic pathways, improved quality of care, and reduced morbidity and mortality.