SWLP is spearheading a revolutionary digital pathology project aimed at enhancing diagnostic accuracy and reducing turnaround times for patients. This innovative initiative, which spans multiple hospitals across south west London, is part of a broader national programme designed to modernise cellular pathology services and improve cancer diagnostics. The project will go live in July.
The digital pathology transformation
At the heart of the project lies the integration of state-of-the-art scanning technology, designed to digitise traditional glass slides that contain tissue samples for analysis. Partnering with renowned technology providers, including Leica, SWLP is investing in new scanners, software, and cloud-based storage solutions. These tools will allow laboratories to create high-resolution digital images, known as Whole Slide Images (WSI), which provide a detailed and magnified view of cellular structures.
“The ability to digitally scan and store these slides will help to streamline the diagnostic process,” explainsJoanne Lam-Wong, SWLP Network Lead for Digital Pathology. “We are laying the groundwork for reducing the time it takes to analyse samples, allowing quicker diagnoses for critical conditions like cancer.”
Cutting-edge storage solutions
To manage the massive amount of data generated by the high-resolution scans, the project will also employ cutting-edge cloud storage technology. Each Whole Slide Image is approximately 1.5 gigabytes in size, making it imperative to have a robust storage infrastructure capable of handling the enormous volume of data produced by the scanners.
“We’re looking at best-in-class cloud solutions to store these images,” adds Joanne. “This ensures that we can securely handle the vast amounts of data while allowing easy access for analysis.
AI and the future of diagnostics
The introduction of this digital platform also lays the foundation for future integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI). A variety of AI tools are available that could assist the laboratory with slide preparation and consultants by highlighting potential cancer cases for further review. This innovation could save valuable time, enabling clinicians to prioritise and diagnose urgent cases.
“While the AI component isn’t implemented yet, this project positions us to adopt these tools in the future,” says Tom Wake, SWLP Digital Pathology Project Manager. “It’s exciting because the technology could automate the initial screening of slides, freeing up time for consultants to focus on more complex cases.”
Immediate benefits for healthcare professionals
Beyond its long-term potential, the digital pathology project offers immediate advantages. One major benefit is the flexibility it provides to healthcare professionals. With digital images, pathologists can work remotely, reviewing and diagnosing cases from anywhere in the world. This is particularly beneficial in addressing workforce challenges and ensuring continuity of care, even when clinicians are offsite.
“If a consultant is on leave or travelling, they can still access urgent cases without needing to physically be in the lab,” says Wake. “This flexibility will bring more resilience to the service, which is good for staff and patients.”
Supporting national cancer targets
The digital pathology project is part of the broader Diagnostics Digital Capability Programme, a national initiative aimed at improving cancer diagnostic turnaround times. The project will support NHS England’s drive to streamline cancer diagnostics and ensure that patients receive faster, more accurate results. By leveraging advanced digital tools, SWLP is playing a key role in helping achieve these national goals.
Looking ahead
With an investment of approximately £8 million, digital pathology is set to transform how pathology services operate across south west London. As contracts with key suppliers are finalised, including those with Leica, the project is expected to generate significant interest, both within the NHS and from the wider healthcare industry.
