Chemistry analyzers and integrated chemistry automation are central to clinical laboratories of all sizes, the scope and sophistication of which depends largely on volume. While the majority of facilities use medium- and high-volume instruments, some facilities incorporate low-volume analyzers into their workflow to scale testing to demand. Today’s chemistry analyzers tackle several functions impacting a wide variety of disease states. They are used to determine the concentration of certain metabolites, electrolytes, proteins, and/or drugs in samples of serum, plasma, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, and/or other body fluids. When coordinated via automation and the information system, the processes of the core chemistry lab increase in value to the provision of health care.

The vast majority (94%) of laboratories are satisfied with their chemistry analyzers.

Medium- and high-volume analyzer use is nearly universal in facilities over 100 beds, with most low-volume analyzer use occurring in the smallest facilities.

Test availability is the primary purchasing factor, with analytical method supplanting ease of maintenance compared to last year.

The leading systems in use are Siemens, Roche, Abbott, and Beckman Coulter, with Ortho Clinical also well represented.

Plans to acquire new chemistry analyzers remain steady with over half (58%) of labs planning to purchase new instruments.