SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 29 Aug (EUROPA PRESS) –
The President of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, emphasised this Thursday during his visit to the Nuestra Señora de Candelaria Hospital, “the significant advantage that the adoption of technology brings to the healthcare sector,” following the launch of Spain’s first intelligent automation system incorporating laboratories situated on three distinct levels.
The laboratories within the hospital complex, namely Clinical Analysis, Microbiology, and Hematology, are interconnected through an intelligent distribution network based on i-Car technology, spanning over 100 metres. This system currently enables the connection of 32 units, with the potential to add further auto-analysers.
Reflecting on this significant achievement, the President conveyed his appreciation to the service personnel and the Management of La Candelaria Hospital for successfully implementing such advanced and contemporary equipment, “which positions the archipelago as a leading region in this area, where ongoing progress must be pursued through innovative technological models that enhance patient care while simultaneously diversifying economic activities and boosting productivity within the region.”
During his laboratory visit, Clavijo was joined by the Minister of Health, Esther Monzón, the Director of the Canary Islands Health Service, Carlos Díaz, and the President of the Cabildo de Tenerife, Rosa Dávila, who all had the opportunity to observe the system in operation.
In this context, Dávila noted the significance of this new technological advancement not only for the island of Tenerife but for the overall healthcare system in the Canary Islands.
“This automation system marks a landmark achievement in public health, positioning Tenerife at the forefront of technology in Spain and solidifying our status as a national leader in the health sector,” he remarked.
He also acknowledged “the dedication of the Government of the Canary Islands and its pledge to the ongoing enhancement of public services” and emphasised that technological innovation is “today a crucial element for ensuring the well-being of patients and users.”
OVER 200 STAFF MEMBERS
In turn, Esther Monzón emphasised that the Clinical Analysis, Microbiology, and Hematology laboratories operate around the clock and employ more than 200 individuals, “conducting over 25 million determinations each year from approximately 2 million requests.”
“This revolutionary system signifies a transformation in the total automation of laboratories, allowing for the consolidation of the pre-analytical process. It facilitates the simultaneous entry of serum samples, blood count tubes, coagulation tubes, and urine samples, which are then automatically distributed with utmost efficiency and traceability,” explained the councillor.
Thanks to the tailored software designed to oversee the system, it is possible to know the precise location and intended operations for each sample at all times, adhering to standards of excellence in process quality.
Once testing is completed, samples are moved to two completely automated storage refrigerators where they are stored for the specified duration and can be retrieved for further determinations if required, all in a fully automated manner.
The intelligent automated system employed by the service spans 68 linear metres on the ground, featuring four lanes and 43 linear metres elevated, inclusive of two bidirectional lanes for sample transportation and seven carousels linking the three floors accommodating the three involved services.
