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Making every test count: Insights from a test kit efficiency audit
Amy O Strydom1,2, Mpho R Maphayi1,2, Chemedzai Chikomba1,2
1School of Pathology, Department of Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
African Journal of Laboratory Medicine
|August 7, 2026
Summary
Clinical laboratories can improve test kit efficiency by auditing data and implementing targeted interventions. This systematic approach reduces waste and optimizes workflow, enhancing overall laboratory resource management.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Chemistry
- Laboratory Medicine
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Clinical laboratories face rising test demand and budget constraints.
- Efficient resource utilization is crucial for laboratory operations.
- Test kit efficiency, minimizing non-billable tests per kit, is a key performance indicator.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess test kit efficiency for 96 chemistry analytes.
- To identify under-performing analytes and areas for improvement.
- To demonstrate the impact of targeted interventions on efficiency.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of manufacturer-supplied monthly test kit efficiency data.
- Comparison of analyte efficiencies against benchmarks and previous audits.
- Root cause analysis and implementation of targeted interventions for under-performing analytes.
Main Results:
- Identified under-performing analytes including total protein (CSF), alkaline phosphatase, glucose, ferritin, direct bilirubin, and vancomycin.
- Targeted interventions resulted in significant efficiency improvements ranging from 12.6% to 37.7% for specific analytes.
- Auditing revealed inefficiencies related to analytical performance, kit size, and batching practices.
Conclusions:
- Regular test kit efficiency audits are recommended for waste reduction and workflow optimization.
- Data-driven insights support adjustments in kit size and batching strategies.
- Addressing inherent test inefficiencies requires tailored solutions considering population, reagent, and sample stability.
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