It was a day of immense pride and celebration at South West London Pathology (SWLP) as it officially opened its spectacular new bacteriology and molecular laboratories. Trust Managing Director Kate Slemeck was invited to officially open the two new laboratories to mark this significant milestone in SWLP’s ambitious journey of transformation.
The official opening celebrated the culmination of two years of dedicated work, resulting in the creation of two world-class diagnostic facilities that will profoundly enhance patient care across our region.
A new era for molecular diagnostics
A centerpiece in this transformation is the creation of one of the largest molecular suites in the country. The greatest number of samples received in the molecular laboratory are for GUM testing (chlamydia and gonorrhoea), followed by viral load tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, which are important for monitoring the effectiveness of treatment. We know the impact that diseases like HIV and hepatitis B and C have on our communities and the ability to diagnose and monitor these conditions in the quickest and most efficient way possible brings significant benefits to patient care.
The development of the laboratory was no small feat; the project began in 2023 and involved the relocation of an existing laboratory and the demolition of walls to create a large, open-plan laboratory space. Once the new open-plan space had been created, the team in Microbiology worked with Roche Diagnostics, who won the tender to provide SWLP molecular services, to complete the validation and verification of three new Roche 6800 analysers, replacing the previous 6800 instruments team had been using, plus a Roche p612, which is an automated pre-analytic solution able to decap and sort samples according to the requested tests.
These state-of-the-art analysers are designed to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and reduce error rates, providing more accurate and consistent test results. They also allow SWLP to carry out a broader range of tests in-house, supporting faster turnaround times which benefit healthcare providers and patients alike.
Revolutionising bacteriology with unique technology
Running concurrently with the development of the molecular suite, the team in the main bacteriology laboratory in Microbiology worked with the supplier Becton Dickinson (BD) to carry out a complete upgrade to its Kiestra total lab automation system. This advanced enhancement builds on a decade of success with Kiestra, further revolutionising laboratory workflows, improving diagnostic precision and enhancing patient care and diagnostic efficiency by delivering faster turnaround times and even more accurate results.
Work began to replace the existing two Kiestra lines with the most up-to-date Kiestra technology in November 2024. With its modular and scalable design, the upgraded system not only meets current needs but also positions the laboratory for future advancements.
A standout feature of the revamped laboratory is that it is the only one in the country to boast three separate Kiestra lines. This unique setup, which includes a track dedicated to MRSA samples, significantly improves our diagnostic precision and supports vital infection control and antimicrobial stewardship efforts.
The amazing contribution of SWLP staff
While we celebrate the cutting-edge technology from partners Roche and BD, the most valuable asset is not made of circuitry and steel, but of the people who bring it to life.
The resilience, dedication, and expertise of the SWLP staff in Microbiology have been nothing short of remarkable. Throughout this period of significant change, they mastered new, complex equipment while maintaining seamless patient care. They worked tirelessly to validate and verify the new analysers, often in restricted spaces and amid other service upgrades, ensuring all services continued with minimal disruption.
Their unwavering commitment to SWLP services, clinicians, and, most importantly, patients, is the true heart of everything SWLP achieves. This grand opening is as much a tribute to their hard work as it is a celebration of the new facilities.
The successful opening of the new molecular and Kiestra laboratories was a fantastic moment for everyone in SWLP Microbiology.
Kate Slemeck said to staff, “I’ve heard nothing but praise for all you’ve done. I love the energy and enthusiasm I’ve experienced today.”
Roche Managing Director for the UK and Ireland Geoff Twist added, “Together we should be very proud that we’re going to change lives. We look forward to the next 10 years of partnership with SWLP.”
SWLP Managing Director Simon Brewer took the opportunity to call out the contribution of staff. “Very well done to a great team in transforming the lab and overseeing the new automation, coping with the building works and still delivering the day-to-day service.”
The opening of these fantastic new laboratories marks a bold new chapter for SWLP. It is now better equipped than ever to deliver on its promise of exceptional diagnostic services, driving improved patient outcomes for years to come.