Automation in microbiology: a physician's viewpoint

Physicians in clinical practice are often less than fully aware of the problems and potential resources of the microbiology laboratory. While automation can be of significant benefit simply within the laboratory itself, communication with those directly responsible for patient care is vital if the full potential of automation to improve the quality of health care is to be realized. This paper presents the clinician's viewpoint and suggests affirmative actions the microbiologist can take to improve the clinician/laboratory working relationship.