Changes to blood and pathology sample logistics

September 26, 2024

We would like to make all colleagues aware of the changes to blood and pathology sample transportation between SWB sites from Sunday, 6 October 2024.

On 7 October, following Sandwell acute services moving to Midland Metropolitan University Hospital (MMUH) on 6 October, the pathology laboratory at Sandwell will change from an essential services lab to a specialist chemistry only lab.  That means that any blood or pathology samples taken at Sandwell Hospital after this time will need to be transported to MMUH to be sorted and processed.

At each location where samples are currently taken, sample collection containers will be provided. These will be collected hourly and taken to a centralised ‘Pick Up/Drop Off’ point on the site. Please use these standardised containers only, as this is where the logistics operatives will be advised to collect from.

The pick up/drop off point will be collected on an hourly basis by Transport and taken to MMUH where it will be registered by the pathology sample reception and either processed on site, or sent to RWT depending on the type of sample.

Please ensure that samples are placed in the yellow collection container as soon as they are taken rather than at the end of a clinic or session as this will ensure they are transported as quickly as possible.

For any queries or issues please email swbh.pathologylogistics@nhs.net

Please note that City processes will not change until the City Hospital move in November and further comms will be shared closer to that time.