LANSING, Mich. – The University of Michigan Health-Sparrow activated a new, laboratory automation system that boasts drastically shorter turnaround times for lab tests. The system is among the first of its kind in the nation.

The shortened turnaround times enable quicker diagnosis and treatment. The automated processes minimize manual handling errors and strenuous manual tasks for staff, enhancing overall testing quality and consistency, and contribute to shorter hospital stays.

“This investment is about getting critical results to our physicians faster,” said Jon Baker, director of laboratories at University of Michigan Health-Sparrow.

The FlexLab X is a fully integrated automation line that manages sample tubes from check-in through final output. Representatives from Siemens-Healthineers joined hospital leadership for the event.

“We look forward to building upon our relationship with this new technology to support University of Michigan Health-Sparrow’s goals in driving greater efficiency in their lab and delivering faster results for patients,” said Jennifer Murphy, SVP, Head of Laboratory Solutions National Strategic Accounts. 

The U-M Health Sparrow Laboratories is among the busiest hospital labs in the country, receiving lab results from throughout the state. The lab distinguished itself during the COVID-19 pandemic, becoming the first hospital to develop an inpatient COVID test and opening a drive-thru testing site at a former Sears Automotive Center.

For more information on laboratory services, visit UofMHealthsparrow.org/departments-conditions/all-departments/laboratories.

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