Delivering an Uninterrupted Diagnostics Service

When previously smooth-running arrangements for consultant histopathology locum services were unexpectedly disrupted at the end of last year, Bedford Hospitals NHS Trust found Backlogs online pathology reporting invaluable in maintaining uninterrupted services.

Head of Cellular Pathology, Dr Margaret Wilkins, commented: “We were faced with an immediate short-term need for extra help. Consultants at other NHS Trusts gave me very positive feedback about the Backlogs service.

We started working with them in November 2008 and have continued to use their services as and when required.”

Backlogs provides a rapid diagnostic reporting service for cellular pathology. Cases collected by medical courier are assigned according to clinical category to an appropriate specialist within the company’s network of UK-based consultant pathologists. Pathologists report directly online so that information is immediately available through the unique, secure web-based ‘Backlogs’ proprietary software platform.

“Online reporting gives us access to case reports as soon as they are available,” said Dr Wilkins. “The turnaround time is very good and all of our urgent cases are given high priority.”