Hospital laboratories in US identified as 'cost centres'

A recent study of US hospital laboratory directors has found that most respondents identify hospital laboratories as cost centres.

Despite hospital laboratories playing a major role in the hospital, Frost & Sullivan's research has found that in most cases, the profit margin of the laboratories is minimal. Indeed, many staff identified them as costly, whereas the hospitals themselves were generally identified as profitable.

This survey of opinion is particularly interesting considering that the demand for laboratory screening, diagnostic and esoteric testing has actually increased in the US. Hospital laboratories are finding themselves in a precarious position - the more test services they provide, the more money is lost.

Frost & Sullivan Senior Consultant Dr Virginia Cardin said: "Additionally, hospitals must distinguish the break-even parameters for screening, diagnostic, esoteric and physiologic tests.

"Outlining these factors is the planning phase of the strategic shift to profitability.  Concurrently, laboratories can also assess the benefits of initiating or expanding their outreach (outpatient) services."

Strategic alliances and joint ventures will continue to pave the road to profitability for hospital laboratories. As well as this, operational efficiency, cost savings income generation opportunities should be at the top of the list for US labs.

Posted by Fiona Griffiths