Siemens Healthineers unveils capillary testing menu for Atellica analysers
Siemens Healthineers has launched capillary testing on its Atellica CH, IM and CI analysers following the award of CE-marking for 24 capillary blood testing claims. The expanded menu is intended to give clinical laboratories greater confidence in test results and higher throughput when working with capillary specimens.
The newly validated claims cover assays used in the comprehensive metabolic panel, lipid panels, thyroid function, Vitamin D and HbA1c testing. Capillary specimens are typically obtained via finger prick or heel stick, in contrast to venipuncture.
Sharon Bracken, head of Diagnostics at Siemens Healthineers, commented: “Offering a capillary test menu expands the testing that can be done in the core lab to reach more patients and support more testing needs – all with the same systems they already trust.” She also noted: “Our efforts to expand capillary claims across our assay menu build upon our broader vision to make testing more accessible, efficient, and patient-friendly.”
Validating collection methods for core lab use
On-label, validated capillary performance data is not standard practice within core laboratory testing. Laboratories that have previously offered capillary testing have presumably taken additional steps to validate their performance, given that collection methods can influence the quality and accuracy of results. As a result, many laboratories have remained dependent on venous draws, even as patient access challenges, staffing shortages and demand for faster turnaround times continue to grow.
Addressing patient access and comfort
Capillary collection offers an option for patients with difficult veins or low blood volume, for whom repeat venipuncture could be harmful, as well as for those with trypanophobia (fear of needles) or disabilities that make venipuncture difficult. The capability is designed to give laboratories flexibility to diversify their testing approaches, whether to reach underserved patient populations or to broaden the scope of testing offered to existing patients.
For more information, visit: www.siemens-healthineers.com
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