A microbiology marvel

London’s hospitals have become an international flagship for innovation in clinical microbiology. 
More accurate test results, faster diagnoses and greater patient safety – patients across Southwestern Ontario will benefit from all three with a world first in London.

St. Joseph’s Heath Care London (St. Joseph’s) and London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) recently celebrated the installation of a total laboratory automation (TLA) system within the clinical microbiology laboratory. As patient numbers continue to soar, the innovative and automated technology allows laboratory professionals to accommodate a surge in diagnostic tests, advance the detection of diseases and generate high-quality results faster.

The BD Kiestra™ 3rd Generation TLA system is the first of its kind to be installed in the world, making London an international flagship site for innovation in clinical microbiology. It will transform laboratory operations by fully automating the complex and multi-step process of investigating bacterial culture on patient specimens.

Located at LHSC’s Victoria Hospital, the state-of-the-art microbiology lab and TLA system will serve hundreds of thousands of patients across London and Southwestern Ontario every year. The lab is part of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, a joint venture of LHSC and St. Joseph’s that provides a comprehensive range of routine and specialized testing and clinical consultation for patient care in Southwestern Ontario and beyond.

“At St. Joseph’s, patient and resident safety is paramount and this state-of the-art technology is a vital investment in just that,” says Karen Perkin, Vice President Patient Care and Chief Nurse Executive at St. Joseph’s. 

“With growing demands on microbiology services, there is a tremendous need for innovative solutions. St. Joseph’s is pleased to be part of this investment in London for faster, more accurate diagnoses, which will enhance the safety of those in our care, our community and our region.”

-Karen Perkin, Vice President Patient Care and Chief Nurse Executive at St. Joseph’s