Impact of pre-analytical errors on costs of clinical analysis laboratory

Abstract

Introduction: Currently, it is well known that quality assurance systems in healthcare organizations are constantly evolving. Quality improvements can reduce costs by avoiding repetition of exams, which results in a waste of time and money for the company, as well as customer and physician dissatisfaction. Objective: To quantify the cost that errors in the pre-analytical phase generate for the laboratory using the collection indicators, direct material cost, and operating cost. Materials and methods: The database of a large laboratory in the city of Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, was analyzed between January 2013 and July 2014. Results: A total cost of R$ 23,330.71 spent on recollections was obtained. Discussion: Management cost is committed to efficiency in reducing expenses, through studies and analyzes aimed at changing management and conduct processes. Conclusion: Cost management is necessary in any company because in the case where it fails to be carried out, besides the being able to bring the institution down to bankrupt, it brings negative costs, as well as impacts customers and physician's satisfaction.