[The importance of pre-analytics]

Quality assurance in laboratory medicine up to now has been focused mainly on analytical quality. Pre-analytical errors, however, amount to two thirds of all laboratory errors, and their elimination is of particular importance. Flaws of optimal indication contribute to a sometimes ineffective benefit of laboratory medicine. Deficiencies in the rest of the pre-analytical field result in a reduced efficiency of laboratory medicine. Quite often the potential of a thoroughly evaluated method is wasted on the way to the convenience of daily use. If we achieve more reliable laboratory results by better control of influence factors and interference factors as well as by a more standardized pre-analytical process, we will produce more value at the same cost. The decisive prerequisite is awareness of the problem. The means are largely available, and the mission eventually can be accomplished.