Test, Test, Test

Over recent days and weeks it has been widely reported that the Government are falling short of testing requirements. People reporting that it has been suggested they travel over 100 miles in order to be tested even though they have the symptoms of the virus and run the risk of spreading the virus further afield.

The challenges the Government are facing is new territory and a job that no one person can solve. Sure errors will be made along the way and it easy for everyone to say they would have done it differently in hindsight.

The annoying part is when you read that tests that have been carried out are "spoilt" due to incorrect collection, loss in transit or transported at the wrong temperature. All of these examples were outlined in last week's Sunday Times newspaper and are totally avoidable.

Contracts worth millions of pounds have been awarded to companies to carry out these tests and if these testing kits are in short supply there is no room for "spoiling" tests!

We have been working on an end to end sampling transport solution for two years and so it is pure coincidence that we have this solution at a time that it might prove very effective. Whilst we are an established consumable supplier to the NHS we felt we needed to address issues that exist within the sample logistic chain. Sample taking, sample collection/transportation, temperature stability and track and trace. Let's look at these points individually.

• Sample Collection Point: A large proportion of samples that are presented for processing originate in GP surgeries. Sample taken, it now needs to be packaged in a fashion suitable for transporting. At this stage there is a risk of the sample becoming separated from it's bag and accompanying paperwork resulting in a costly and inconvenient re-test.
• Transportation: A significant amount of samples are collected from each GP location by a courier. It is essential this is a fast and efficent process allowing the driver to move to the next location as quickly as possible.
• Temperature Stability: Transporting samples in a temperature stable environment is essential in order to avoid "spoiling" the sample. Monitoring that temperature is critical in meeting UKAS requirements
• Track and Trace: Knowing which location samples have been collect from, by whom and at what time are all hugely important factors in meeting KPIs. Having real time intelligence on incoming workload allows the laboratory to plan staffing levels and shift patterns.

The answers:

• Specimen bags that offer a leakproof seal ensure that the sample remains securely inside the bag and do not become separated from the accompanying paperwork. The edge to edge adhesive seal will contain any spillage that might occur in transit and eliminates the risk of the spillage "spoiling" other samples in the same consignment. https://bloodbags.co.uk/portfolio/leakproof-specimen-bags/
• Transport bags ensures the driver a quick and easy way to collect the whole consignment from each GP location. If track and trace is being used it is at this stage that the driver scans a unique barcode printed on the bag to record all of the information, location, time and driver name. https://bloodbags.co.uk/portfolio/transport-bags/
• Temperature stability is critical. Our validated temperature control cases ensure the safe arrival of the samples at their processing location. Used in conjunction with our USB data loggers the temperature during transit can accurately be recorded to ensure targets are achieved. The cases are made of antimicribial PVC to ensure the risk of spreading infection whilst travelling from location to location is eradicated.
• eTrakLogic, our GS1 accredited software solution offers the ultimate answer to ensuring safe transportation is achieved. This custom solution will enable the laboratory management team a full view of each driver's location, their progression through their workload and the volume of samples in transit in real time. A video shown in this link will offer you a full insight. https://zippedbags.co.uk/portfolio/etraklogic/

We have been supplying the NHS for over 40 years and we have a wealth of experience in supplying the sector with innovative solutions. We are exteremely proud of our portfolio of satisfied clients many of which have been dealing with us for many years. Our genuine and friendly approach to doing business has allowed us to grow and we would welcome the opportunity to discuss your needs. Whilst face to face meeting can be difficult in these strange times, we have access to Teams, Zoom and of course the old fashioned telephone!

Please make contact with me and lets discuss the ways in which we can help. Email me at [email protected]

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