Over the past 15 years working in healthcare as a lab assistant, I have witnessed firsthand how technology has revolutionized the way we provide patient care. From drawing blood to processing various samples, much of the work that once relied heavily on manual labor and human precision has become automated. While this has undeniably reduced human error and increased efficiency, it has also raised questions about the future of hands-on roles in healthcare, like mine. As a lab assistant, I have seen how automation has transformed our practices—and the upcoming changes could be both exciting and somewhat concerning.
The Shift from Manual to Automated Testing
When I first started in this field, much of our work in the lab was done manually. For instance, testing samples for various conditions meant processing and vortexing blood samples and manually running the tests ourselves. We had to stay on top of every step, being careful not to make any mistakes, because even the smallest errors could lead to major consequences for patients.
Today, machines have taken over much of that process. The whole blood sample is placed onto the equipment, which aliquots the necessary amount for analysis and performs the test internally.
Automation has fully transformed waived testing as well, which is simpler and often conducted in a point-of-care environment (like mine). These machines independently handle the tests and generate results, eliminating the tedious task of manual data entry and minimizing the risk of human error.
We rely so heavily on these machines that when one goes down, we are at a complete standstill. There isn’t anything for us to do except treat the symptoms for the patient or, in other circumstances, drive the patient samples to the nearest location that has the proper equipment that can test them for us.
Will Machines Take Over Blood Draws?
As healthcare continues to evolve—and quickly, I might add—one of the most talked-about possibilities on the horizon is the idea of automated blood draws. The thought of a machine taking my blood in a manner similar to how a blood pressure cuff inflates at my local Walmart terrifies me. There is no way I would stick my arm into that, knowing it would pierce my skin. While it sounds like science fiction, there has been serious talk about creating these ‘robots’ or automated systems for years that could change future blood draws with minimal human interaction.
While the idea of an automatic blood drawer might seem appealing to some—especially in terms of speed and consistency—there are a few reasons why I believe this might not be the best approach, at least not for everyone.
Why Automated Blood Draws Might Be a Bad Idea
Personalization and Trust: As someone who performs blood draws regularly, I know how important it is to communicate with patients and make them feel comfortable. Some people have a fear of needles or have had bad experiences with previous draws. Human touch and reassurance can make a big difference in calming nerves. A machine, no matter how advanced, will not be able to provide the level of empathy and trust that a trained professional can offer.
Complicated Cases: Not every patient’s veins are easy to access. Some patients have challenging veins, especially older adults, those with chronic illnesses, or people who are dehydrated. In these cases, the experience and skill of a human lab assistant make a huge difference.
Error Handling: Even with the most advanced machines, errors can still occur. A machine might misinterpret data, or mechanical issues might arise during the blood draw. When this happens, humans are needed to step in and fix the problem. Can you imagine the machine malfunctioning while perforating the skin?
Job Loss and Human Element: While automation has certainly made the process faster and more efficient, there’s also the concern of job displacement. If robots take over tasks that humans once performed, it could lead to job loss for many healthcare professionals, like lab assistants. The human element in healthcare is crucial. People value the care and attention they receive, and taking away that human interaction could make the process feel more mechanical and less compassionate.
The Benefits of Technology in Healthcare
Despite my reservations about automation in certain areas, I can’t ignore the benefits that technology has brought to healthcare. Reducing human error is critical in a field where patients’ lives are on the line. Automated machines and robotic surgeries have already helped save countless lives by ensuring that tests are done accurately, procedures are performed precisely, and patients receive timely treatments. The use of technology has made healthcare more efficient, accurate, and patient-centered.
Conclusion
In the last 15 years, the healthcare industry has undergone a transformation thanks to technology. Automation has reduced human error, making it safer for patients and more efficient for us as professionals. While I embrace these advancements and changes, I believe that some aspects, like blood draws, still require the human touch. The future of healthcare will likely continue to see a blend of both technology and human expertise, working together to provide the best possible care for patients.
Ultimately, technology has undoubtedly improved patient care, and as we move forward, it will continue to play a pivotal role in reducing errors, enhancing accuracy, and increasing efficiency. However, I’m hopeful that we won’t lose sight of the irreplaceable value of human interaction in healthcare.
What are your thoughts?
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