Automated office hematology instruments.

Evaluation of an automated hematology instrument begins with analysis of one's practice needs, followed by analysis of initial start-up costs, cost of maintenance, and staffing. In one situation, the decision to purchase an automated instrument may allow personnel working with low-efficiency pipetting and slide chamber counting time to assist in other functions of the clinic. In another practice, an automated counter may permit in-office complete blood counts to be added to the workload of current staff. These instruments are more than time-saving conveniences. They can facilitate clinical decision making and monitoring for complications of disease and therapy by making it easier for the physician to obtain reliable hematologic results. They can generate additional practice income and reduce patient cost by improving the quality and efficiency of medical care.