QLIMS Case Study: Garvan Institute of Medical Research (Australia)

The Garvan Institute of Medical Research is a premier medical research organization in Australia, employing over 700 scientists and support staff. Garvan researchers have established a cancer tumor testing service designed to detect mutations, helping oncologists determine the most effective treatment strategies.

To handle increasing sample volumes, the Institute required a new Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). This case study analyzes how the QLIMS solution helped the laboratory overcome these operational challenges.

The Challenge

Laboratory management often faces hurdles in sample traceability, including implementation difficulties, human error, system glitches, lack of training, and data security.

Luke Hesson, Laboratory Head of Cancer Diagnostics at Garvan, noted that the primary challenge was ensuring the lab could handle a massive volume of samples—projected to exceed 1,000 per year.

"We need to know the exact location of every sample in the testing process at any given point. Without a LIMS, this would be incredibly challenging and prone to human error, which would have a flow-on effect on our clinical trials".

While Garvan had used various LIMS in the past, none met their specific needs. Fortunately, Luke had prior experience with OnQ Software through another lab within the Institute. He describes them as a "tried and trusted" partner that provided an off-the-shelf solution (QLIMS) covering 75% of their needs with the flexibility to adapt the rest.

The Solution

The QLIMS solution enables automated data import from various sources, with automatic patient report generation serving as a cornerstone of the project.

"We can now, at the click of a button, export all of the data into a report that can go to the clinician and patient. Not only are they incredibly accurate, but the reports also look great," says Luke.

Another key component was the design of a tool to read HL7 (Health Level 7) files. This international standard allows for the secure communication of sensitive patient information between laboratories. Since the process begins with encrypted data from the SydPath pathology lab at St Vincent’s Hospital, this solution significantly streamlined sample accessioning and increased efficiency.

The Results

Luke is delighted that the Garvan Institute has officially received accreditation from the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) for the QLIMS system.

"All of those key points needed to be addressed to the satisfaction of NATA, so it’s reaffirmed the chain of information custody is accurate and secure. It’s absolutely critical for any clinical testing. I believe that’s a direct result of the assistance we’ve had from OnQ in designing a LIMS that allows fidelity of chain of information custody".

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