As we go to press with this issue of CLP, our editorial team is still unpacking all the materials and notes we took away from the annual AACC meeting and Clinical Lab Expo in Anaheim, Calif. It was terrific to renew connections and make new friends in the clinical lab industry, and, as usual, it also was a bit overwhelming. CLP’s associate editor, Stephen Noonoo, and I were kept very busy running from booth to booth to learn about what is hot right now and what we can expect to see in the coming months and years.
Automation continues to be a key theme, with vendors providing an increasing number of options for automated pre- and postanalytical sample handling, as well as automated tracking of samples through chemistry and immunoassay analyzers. Another point I heard emphasized again and again as I traveled the floor is that vendors are recognizing that they cannot just “sell a product,” but must support labs with additional services. Consulting on process solutions, laboratorian education, audit preparation, as well as a continued emphasis on Lean and Six Sigma management principles, are among the services vendors are making available to help labs achieve more with fewer resources.
CLP was also fortunate to have an opportunity for an exclusive interview with former US Senate majority leader Bill Frist, MD, following his keynote address. Dr Frist spoke at length about the need for a more personalized approach to medicine and the pivotal role clinical labs can play in the coming transition. Look to our September issue for more of his thoughts on value- versus volume-based health care, how labs can make the most of their unique position in the industry, and the future of toxicology testing for labs. And see this month’s Inside Track for an exclusive interview with Jay Lieberman, MD, from Focus Diagnostics on the recent dengue fever outbreak.
To follow trends in the lab industry, visit our blog.
As always, I welcome your thoughts and impressions regarding the AACC meeting or other issues facing the industry. Feel free to e-mail me at or call me at (858) 793-9533.
Best regards,
Suzanne Clancy, PhD
editor, CLP
; (858) 793-9533
