Objective
To develop an integrated Quality Management System (QMS) for SA Pathology, across its 19 laboratories, utilising a Quality Management Information System (QMIS) as a framework, and catalyst, for its creation.

Background
In 2011 SA Pathology commenced the development of a consolidated QMS across 19 laboratories to align disparate process and thus improve efficiencies, effectiveness, and local ownership with centralised oversight. Prior to this project most laboratories ran semi-independent QMS’s with minimal overarching framework.

Method
The project commenced with project planning, process mapping, re-engineering and standardising key quality processes including process control, audit management, non-conformances and staff training. The overall aim was to create an overarching QMS structure which could then be locally managed, and centrally monitored, via the QMIS. The Q-Pulse system (quality management software) was configured to maximise efficiencies brought about by the system itself and the newly reengineered, and standardised, quality system processes. Following this an extensive staff training and roll our programme was implemented.

Results
The predominant outcome from this project is that SA Pathology has a consolidate QMS, which utilised a QMIS as both a framework, and catalyst for its success. The project also consolidated the working relationships between the various discipline staff at the 19 locations.
This development resulted in significant efficiencies in the operation of S.A. Pathology’s Quality Management System including:
• Reduction in number of Standard Operating Procedures: 4,500 (>50%)
• Reduction in Audit Workload: 7,170 Hours (>70%)
• Estimated annual cost savings (SOP development/review and audit time) > AUD $300,000

Conclusions
The results demonstrate that this form of consolidation project, can result in a centralised, co-ordinate system which maintains strong local ownership, and result in significant cost savings.