SYNLAB are excited to announce an important update to our chemistry, immunology and serology test analysis.
Implementing this new platform will immediately provide benefits to you:
- Smaller sample volume is required, which means a greater range of analytes reported on a sample, particularly capillary blood
- Access to a wider test repertoire, meaning immediate access to a greater range of analytes tested
- Results in whole new areas of testing, for instance men’s and women’s health, tumour markers etc.
- Faster results and future-proofed quality.
What you need to know:
SYNLAB Laboratory Services is accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) for compliance with the requirements of ISO 15189:2022 (reference 9301). At the point of go-live, all tests will have been verified scientifically in line with the standard required by UKAS. Please note, however, that the process of UKAS assessing the data and updating the Schedule of Accreditation to reflect the analysis platform may take some months following go-live.
As part of the update to the methods, there may be some minor changes to the way we report the results, for instance the reference ranges accompanying the results. We will provide more information on these specific changes as soon as possible.
We are committed to upholding the highest standards and will keep you informed throughout this transition with regular updates being posted on our help hub (link here).
What you need to do:
Please ensure that this change has been notified to the clinical/scientific leadership of your organisation.
We have provided more detail in the FAQ section below.
If you have any further questions, please contact our team at help@synlab.co.uk or 01873 856 688, and we’ll be happy to help.
Frequently asked questions
Transition Process
Why are you moving to a new analytical platform?
We are transitioning to a new platform to utilise advanced technology that enhances the quality, efficiency, and accuracy of our analysis services. This change is part of our commitment to providing you with the best possible testing solutions.
How will this transition impact the timeline of my tests?
We have carefully planned the transition to minimise disruptions. You can expect the same turnaround times as before.
Will there be disruptions to your services during the switch?
No significant disruptions are expected. Our team has conducted rigorous testing and preparation to ensure a seamless transition.
Are there any costs associated with this change?
No, there are no additional costs to our customers as a result of this transition.
Quality Assurance
How will you ensure the new platform meets the same standards as the previous one?
All tests on the new platform have been fully verified against our existing repertoire of UKAS-accredited tests before going live. This verification ensures that they meet the same rigorous standards you expect. We continue to monitor assay performance through our internal quality control procedures (regular use throughout the day of controls with defined values) as well as External Quality Assurance processes (reporting of “blind” samples to ISO 17043 accredited EQA schemes) to provide assurance of assay performance and quality.
Are the results from the new platform as reliable and accurate as the old one?
Yes, the reliability and accuracy of results from the new platform are our top priorities. Our verification process has confirmed that the new platform delivers results consistent with our high standards.
Will you provide documentation or reports confirming the verification of tests?
Upon request, we can provide documentation outlining the verification process and the steps taken to align the new platform's performance with our existing accredited tests.
Which new tests will I have access to?
In addition to our existing repertoire, we will be offering an extensive panel of hormones and tumour markers, accredited for both venous and capillary blood specimens. More information about our new scope of tests can be accessed [here].
UKAS Accreditation
How long will it take for the update to the UKAS Schedule of Accreditation?
The first stage of the UKAS assessment process is scheduled for 28th April 2025. We anticipate the accreditation process will then be completed within 3 months of this date. We will keep you updated throughout the process via the help hub (link here)
What does "pending UKAS accreditation" mean for the validity of my test results?
Pending UKAS accreditation means that while the tests have not yet completed the UKAS accreditation process at go-live, they have been thoroughly verified to meet the standards of our existing UKAS-accredited tests. You can rely on their accuracy and quality.
Will this affect the acceptance of results by regulatory bodies or clients?
Our results will continue to meet industry standards and remain highly reliable. However, if you have specific questions, we recommend discussing them with your Account Manager or via help@synlab.co.uk .
Client support
Will there be any guidance on interpreting results from the new platform?
Impacts to result interpretation should be minimal. Reference ranges may change because of differences in technology. This will be indicated on our customer reports. Our team can provide full support in interpreting results and addressing any questions you may have during the transition.
Who can I contact if I have concerns about the changes?
You can reach out to our dedicated support team at help@synlab.co.uk. They will be happy to assist you.