2011 CLS Report to the Community - calgarylabservices.com · CLS will provide and promote safe, ... • The CLS Tissue Typing Laboratory underwent a successful recertification

Page 12011 CLS Report to the Community

InnovativeHealth Solutions

Calgary Laboratory Services


As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alberta Health Services, CLS operates diagnostic laboratories in the four acute care hospitals (FMC, ACH, RGH, PLC), four Urgent Care Centers (Sheldon M. Chumir, South Calgary, Airdrie and Cochrane), 18 Patient Service Centers, and a leading edge Diagnostic and Scientific Centre. In addition, CLS provides clinical testing for the Tom Baker Cancer Center and Calgary Zone rural laboratories.

Enjoying leading edge facilities, testing methodologies, technology and education, CLS is closely affiliated with the University of Calgary and promotes and supports research as a fundamental component of the service delivery model.

Recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers for the past 3 consecutive years, Calgary Laboratory Services (CLS) is one of the largest multi-site integrated acute care and community laboratory practices in North America. We are accredited by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta and provide multi-disciplinary diagnostic laboratory and pathology services to more than 1.3 million people in Calgary and the surrounding areas. CLS provides more than 22 million results, interpretations and clinical consulations each year.

2011Report to

theCommunity

Paula HallChief Operating Officer

Dr. Leland BaskinCLS Medical Director,VP, Medical Operations

Dale GrayVP, Technical Services

Donna SchendelVP, Human Resources

Wendy JossaVP, Finance and New Business

Dr. James WrightDepartment HeadPathology & Laboratory Medicine

Our

Our Committmentto Quality

Our People andThose We Serve

Our Corporateand Social

Responsibility

Research andDevelopment

Meeting the Needsof Healthcare

Today / Planningfor the Future

Contents


A Vital Component in Health Care

At CLS, we make a difference in the lives of our patients and this knowledge brings us to work each day. Providing excellent patient care is critical to us and we take pride in providing outstanding support for patients in the hospital and in the community.

Our strength at CLS comes from what we have in common—our commitment to patient care, our mission, vision and shared values, as well as what makes us different—our experiences and perspectives. We encourage different viewpoints and ways of thinking that leads to true insights and innovative practices.

Challenges are embraced as opportunities at CLS. We are a strong and essential part of the health care system because of the professionalism and dedication of our employees. Everyday they provide high quality patient care in a cost effective and sustainable manner.

Laboratory medicine is the medical specialty that supports nearly every practicing physician as they make treatment decisions for their patients. It is estimated that between 60 - 80% of medical diagnoses rely on laboratory results.

We play a critical role in patient care, yet for the most part, we work quietly, behind the scenes, away from the public and hidden from frontline medical treatment. The public rarely get a glimpse at the many people involved in generating a laboratory test result.

This Report to the Community for 2011 showcases CLS innovations, successes and the remarkable effort shown daily by CLS staff to ensure our dedication to quality patient care remains our primary focus.

Paula HallChief Operating OfficerCalgary Laboratory Services


The Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine (DPLM) in Calgary comprises the medical and scientific staff for CLS. The DPLM has 68 primary clinical MD appointees and 13 clinical PhD scientists. There are 32 members with University of Calgary Geographic Full-Time academic appointments and 48 with Clinical or Adjunct academic appointments, as well as one part-time locum. The Medical/Scientific staff are located at all acute-care hospital sites, at CLS’ central laboratory facility the Diagnostic and Scientific Centre, and at the University of Calgary Health Sciences Centre, Heritage Medical Research Building, and Health Research Innovation Centre.

Faculty members with primary appointments in the DPLM are active in research. We held $2.59 million in external grant funding as principle investigators and published 125 peer-reviewed papers as well as 10 book chapters in 2011. We also make very significant contributions in teaching both medical students and doctors. Our postgraduate clinical training programs (Anatomic Pathology and Neuropathology Residency Training programs and Fellowship programs in a variety of areas) trained 19 residents and 6 fellows in 2011. Our faculty contributed several thousand hours of post-graduate medical education and ~1200 hours of undergraduate medical education teaching.

DEPARTMENT OF PATHOLOGY & LABORATORY MEDICINE, ALBERTA HEALTH SERVICESCalgary & the University of Calgary

James R. Wright, Jr., MD, PhDProfessor and HeadDepartment of Pathology andLaboratory MedicineUniversity of Calgary/Alberta Health ServicesCalgary


Mission, Vision, Values

A clearly articulated corporate vision and mission encapsulates an organization’s values, provides focus, direction, clarity, and purpose for everyone in the company. It also serves as the glue that unites an organization and drives it towards success.

Vision: World Leaders in Laboratory Medicine

Mission: Improving health and well-being through laboratory diagnostic excellence, education and research.

Core values are the foundation of our organization and are an essential element of the CLS culture, how we function as an organization and how we behave as employees. They are the beliefs and ideas which guide CLS employees in fulfilling the company’s mission and vision.

Values: At CLS we take PRIDE in who we are and what we do through;

Professionalism

Respect/Caring

Integrity

Dedication

Excellence


Strategic Framework

To support the mission, vision and values, CLS has developed a strategic framework structured around the following five pillars.

QualityCLS will provide and promote safe, effective and patient-focused services.

AccessCLS will ensure that appropriate laboratory services are accessible and available.

SustainabilityCLS will live within our means and allocate resources (financial, human and infrastructure) optimally now and in the future.

InnovationCLS will be a creative organization that places a high emphasis on education and research.

RelationshipsCLS will build and maintain key relationships, internally and externally within the health care system to influence the delivery of laboratory services.

Our

OurCommittment

to Quality

Our commitment to quality – to follow optimal procedures in everything we

do – means that when we provide any tests, results, interpretations, or clinical

consultation , both the patient and their physician can be assured that the results

we report are accurate.

CLS maintains a comprehensive Quality Management System based on Quality

System Essentials (QSEs) that outline key elements needed by CLS to:

• Meet accreditation, legal and regulatory requirements, recognized standards

of laboratory practice, and operational needs.

• Continually monitor the quality and appropriateness of our services.

• Ensure continuous quality improvement of CLS processes.

• Consistently provide cost-effective services through efficient, effective

business operations.

CLS recognizes that in order to design, implement and carry out the necessary

programs and activities required to meet the objectives of our Quality

Management System, the appropriate organizational structure and resources

must be in place. As evidence of CLS’ commitment to quality, the CLS Quality

Department provides dedicated resources to oversee compliance with the

requirements of the quality management system and as an independent

department, can be unbiased in their role as monitors of laboratory processes and

CLS’ risk management system.

Quality – Pursuit of Excellence


Implementation of AHS Laboratory Specimen Acceptance Policy

CLS regularly assesses our quality management system and the quality of key aspects of our services through the development and monitoring of performance indicators. Indicators are reviewed regularly to ensure we continue to meet our high standards. These metrics include, however are not limited to:

• Test and patient volumes• Patient wait times at Patient Service Centres in the community• Turnaround times for both stat and routine requests • Quality assurance metrics, for example rejected specimen rates and

external proficiency testing results• Number of Patient safety learning reports and severity• Environmental Health and Safety incident rates• Customer satisfaction

Quality and accuracy of laboratory results can only be assured when samples and test requests meet specific collection, labelling and integrity criteria. Calgary Laboratory Services participated in a province-wide working group to develop standardized specimen acceptance practices throughout the province. The new Alberta Health Services Acceptance of Laboratory Samples and Test Requests Policy has been approved and applies to specimens tested in all laboratories in Alberta, including Calgary Laboratory Services. This new policy supports CLS’ commitment to quality and patient safety and continues to build upon existing CLS and division practices.

Laboratory Accreditation

CLS has a comprehensive assessment program designed to meet accreditation, legal and regulatory requirements, recognized standards of laboratory practice, and operational needs. CLS laboratories are accredited through the:

College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA)• The College’s accreditation program adopts and enforces standards for

the safe and effective delivery of laboratory services in Alberta. • The program requires an onsite inspection of all CLS testing laboratories

at regular intervals with the next onsite inspection scheduled for 2014.• Plans are currently underway to register, inspect and accredit new CLS

testing laboratories opening in the South Health Campus in 2012.

American Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (ASHI)• The goal of ASHI accreditation is to maintain the highest standards of

reliability and quality in histocompatibilty testing laboratories (Tissue Typing).

• This accreditation process requires alternating years of onsite inspection by ASHI Inspectors and rigorous self-inspection.

• The CLS Tissue Typing Laboratory underwent a successful recertification and full accreditation was granted for the period of 09/1/2011 to 8/31/2013

Quality Indicators and Key Metrics


2011 Quality Improvement Initiatives Quality initiatives may be carried out in response to specific patient events, in response to trends or themes identified via the Reporting and Learning System, or indirectly as part of ongoing efforts to improve the quality of laboratory services. Initiatives undertaken in 2011 include however are not limited to the following:

• Implemented or modified processes to improve quality, efficiency and/or safety of laboratory services, for example:

» Implemented the province-wide policy to standardize specimen and test order/requisition acceptance criteria and management

Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT)• The CLS Cellular Therapy laboratory processes, cryopreserves and stores

cellular therapy products for transplant and is a major partner in the Alberta Bone Marrow Transplant Program

• All aspects of the transplant program, including the Cellular Therapy laboratory were inspected in 2009 with the next onsite inspection planned for early 2012.

Health Canada Cells, Tissues & Organs (CTO)• The CLS Cellular Therapy Laboratory was inspected by Health Canada in

December 2009 and found to be fully compliant. Health Canada CTO compliance is mandatory for all transplant programs in Canada

In addition, CLS participates in other Alberta Health Services accreditation programs where the processes or programs being evaluated utilize laboratory services. In 2011, CLS was involved in the following onsite inspection:

Accreditation Canada (October)The surveyors focused on specific hospital processes and programs.Laboratory staff at acute care and urgent care sites were available to provide information to surveyors when laboratory services were identified as part of one of the processes being evaluated.


of specimens and test orders with major and minor deficiencies. Adherence to these policies will reduce safety risks when unlabelled/mislabelled specimens or incomplete/inaccurate information on test requests are received in the laboratory.

» Reviewed and improved processes related to operation and maintenance of Anatomic Pathology tissue processors and tracking of non-conforming events related to this equipment.

» Developed an automated weekly Pending Report List to identify outstanding Anatomic Pathology cases to facilitate timely reporting of results.

» Revised Gynecological requisition in October 2011 to reduce errors when entering the type of pap screening versus colposcopy.

» Conducted a process improvement event to reduce the number of orders entered without ordering physician information (e.g. temporary physicians) which in turn reduces the number of order problems that require resolution and prevents report distribution delays.

» Enhanced Laboratory Information System to streamline the processes for Data Maintenance staff to manage and update patient records. These changes reduce the risk for errors and reporting delays.

» Implemented a system enhancement in July to increase efficiency and reduce the time required for Data Maintenance staff to update the ordering and copy to physician information in the Laboratory Information System.

» Reviewed the process for PT/INR reporting and handling of results, including critical result reporting, when flagged results require additional investigation due to possible pre-analytic errors. Nursing units are now notified when there will be reporting delays due to this issue.

» Implemented bar code scanning for several higher volume assays to facilitate population of the accession number field in the Molecular Hematology database and reduce risk of transcription errors.

» Completed a process improvement event within Molecular Hematology and Special Coagulation testing laboratories to permit data entry of Molecular Hematology results into the Laboratory Information System and facilitate reporting of Factor II and V testing, reduce manual transcription and alert staff to perform additional testing when results do not correlate.

» Limited performing of Lithium testing to specimens collected in primary collection tubes only. Established protocols for handling aliquot tubes to reduce potential for falsely elevated Lithium results due to collection of specimen in the incorrect type of collection tube.

» Revised the Patient Service Centre procedure for managing medical emergencies in order to better manage unresponsive patients, temporarily close site and/or re-direct patients as appropriate when Emergency Medical Services are called.

» Developed a Laboratory Information System audit to permit real-time investigation of STAT gram stain result delays in order to ensure turnaround targets are met.

» Group O Rh negative red cells are chronically in short supply. Transfusion Medicine changed protocols for the supply of unmatched red blood cell units to FMC Emergency Department which is expected to save about 200 units of group O Rh negative red cells per year.


» Standardized protocol for interpretation and reporting of vaginal smears implemented to improve the quality of testing and patient results.

• Worked with Alberta Health Services and other partners to improve the quality of facilities and/or improve the delivery and safety of healthcare services:

» New state-of-the-art morgue facility designed by CLS Pathologists and Pathology Technicians was built and is scheduled to open at Foothills Medical Centre (FMC) in early 2012.

» FMC Anatomic Pathology collaborated with AHS portering services for the transport patient specimens from patient care areas to Anatomic Pathology for processing. This initiative reduced the time laboratory staff spends away from the laboratory retrieving pathology specimens.

» Updated and standardized test information provided in the Guide to Laboratory Services as a single source of information for laboratory testing performed by CLS and rural laboratories in the Calgary Zone.

» Joint initiative conducted to add tests performed by the Biochemical Laboratory to the CLS Guide to Laboratory Services in order to make collection and handling requirements readily available for physicians and CLS staff.

» Partnered with AHS rural laboratories in the Calgary Zone to implement scanning of all test orders/requisitions to permit easier retrieval when problem solving.

Researchand

Development

Our

Researchand

Development

CLS Research

Research, which is an integral part of the CLS infrastructure, complements our commitment to patient care. Using advanced technology and access to unique, population-based study groups, our team of medical staff and researchers investigate diseases that affect people around the world. Research done in Calgary with our unique patient base has led to the development of innovative ways and methods in diagnosis and detection of diseases. Examples include the development of an assay for IDH1 & IDH2 mutational detection in brain tumours and the detection of BRAF Mutations in Melanocytic Lesions and Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma using the real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction Method.

The Calgary Laboratory Services Research Division, reporting to the Medical Director, is currently supporting over 680 ethically-approved Clinical Trials and grant-based research projects conducted by researchers in the Calgary zone. As one of the largest integrated urban laboratory systems in North America, we are well positioned to have exposure to a wide patient base providing a potentially rich research population.

Our mission of improving health and well-being through laboratory diagnostic excellence, education and research is reflected in our ties to a varied research environment that includes:

• Industry sponsored Clinical Trials• Health Foundation based Grants• Epidemiology Research• Laboratory Data Informatics Research

CLS is committed to evaluating and implementing validated new test methods. We have worked with Commercial ventures to evaluate novel Lab diagnostic methods on numerous projects.

CLS has partnerships with the University of Calgary on many levels sharing expertise with the Faculty of Medicine and Pathology. CLS is also closely associated with the Tom Baker Cancer Centre in advancing and supporting Cancer Research in North America.

CLS has world-class expertise and its staff offer research excellence in the fields of Anatomical Pathology/Cytopathology, Clinical Pathology, Microbiology, Hematopathology and Translational Research.

We provide specialised laboratory services in Molecular Pathology which offers molecular diagnostics in the following laboratories:

• Molecular Hematology • Molecular Microbiology • Molecular Pathology • Tissue Typing

CLS offers complex testing of cancer genes, genomic alterations and pathogens from tissue, blood or fluid specimens and works with researchers to either develop new assays or provide molecular testing services in support of research.


CALGARY LABORATORY SERVICES IDEALLY POSITIONED TO PROVIDE EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH

The CLS Research and Development has implemented the following initiatives in 2011:

1. The identification and appointment of a CLS Research and Development Program Leader, Dr. Douglas Demetrick, a physician and Director of the Molecular Pathology Laboratory at CLS as well as an experienced cancer research scientist at the University of Calgary.

2. The identification and appointment of a CLS Research and Development Coordinator, Mr. Zane Ramdas, whose extensive background includes both pharmaceutical research and clinical trials management with large Pharmaceutical companies.

3. The evaluation of current Research activities, policies and research support at CLS.

4. Initiation of External Communication of CLS Research and Development activities through discussions with research stakeholders in Alberta, including Alberta Innovates Health Solutions (AIHS) and the University of Calgary.

5. The development and initiation of the CLS Research and Development web-portal to disseminate information on research activities, processes, CLS research expertise and the initiation of a research gateway to streamline research operations and services at CLS.

6. The establishment of an Umbrella Ethics Approval process to significantly facilitate evaluation and approval of tissue or blood-based biomarker research projects in CLS.

7. Development and activation of a joint CLS/University of Calgary Research Committee.

8. Review and update of processes, operations and outcomes of CLS funded Internal Research Programmes.

Various programs have been initiated by CLS aiming to streamline operations and improve risk management and privacy concerns in order to ensure CLS provides world-class research services.


The CLS Research footprint was also increased when CLS researchers and investigators attended the American Society for Clinical Pathology annual meeting held in Las Vegas, Nevada. The conference is a platform for the leading voices in global health, pathology, infectious disease and laboratory medicine. Two CLS research projects received nominations in the category of best international poster/research presentations amongst hundreds of international and North-American submissions. CLS is extremely proud to mention that both research studies were initiated and carried out by CLS affiliated pathologists and investigators attesting to the high quality of research studies undertaken by CLS medical and scientific staff. (See appendix for study details).

The number of peer-reviewed publications has increased by 95% since 2005 when a total of 60 publications were submitted compared to 117 peer-reviewed publications and 3 book chapters submitted in 2010*. We are also seeing the marked growth (2002 – 2011) and fruits of the CLS funded internal research program where no less than 2 new laboratory testing methods have been developed, 6 research study presentations conducted at local and international medical conferences, the publication of 20 research papers and 4 abstracts in various local and international medical journals by CLS affiliated researchers. This affirms CLS’ presence as a key Canadian centre for world-class research in laboratory medicine and healthcare.

Province Wide Laboratory List of Tests and Services for Clinical Trials and Research Studies

Anatomic Pathology Research Laboratory (APRL)

Alberta Health Services, Calgary Laboratory Services, DynaLifeDx, Covenant Health Edmonton Acute and Medicine Hat Diagnostic Laboratory collaborated to provide a single province-wide research cost list as a significant step towards enhancing the health research environment in Alberta.

The template is effective across the province and will assist investigators in project and budget planning.

The laboratory which is situated at the Foothills Medical Centre, offers the following tests and services: routine immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining (also tested at the Diagnostic & Scientific Centre): single and double stain, IHC method development for new or untested antibodies, Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain, tissue sectioning: paraffin embedded, frozen tissues, tissue microarray, Tissue Micro Array blocks and core punch construction.

The APRL obtained a new Leica antibody stainer: BondMax to assist with the increased workload at the laboratory and further enhance the service quality of the APRL.

APRL Workload has increased significantly from 2008 to 2011. IHC staining has increased from a total of 48 stained slides in 2008 to 1953 stained slides in 2011. New antibody development has also increased from 12 assays in 2008 to 82 assays in 2011.


Anatomic Pathology Supporting Cancer Research

2011 CLS Research Competition

The Anatomic Pathology / Cytopathology laboratories supported many research projects by providing tumour banking services and research specimen retrieval. In addition, new molecular diagnostic tests were developed in support of personalized treatment for cancer.

The CLS Research Department announced award results for the fourteenth annual CLS Health Services Research Funding Competition. A total of $64,101.00 was awarded by CLS to researchers this year.

102 projects have received funding through the Research competition since it began in 1998. Seventy two projects are complete. An additional $8,102,406.00 has been obtained from external research granting agencies based on results of projects funded through this competition.Since 1998, 45 publications and 70 abstracts/presentations have resulted from funded projects.

2011 CLS HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH FUNDING COMPETITIONPROJECTS AWARDED FUNDING

Competition Year

PrincipalInvestigator/

Co- Investigators

Topic Budget

2011 Dr. Francis Green, Candice Bjornson

A serum DNA baseddiagnostic assay for occult infection in cystic fibrosis patients

$9,850.00

Dr. Christopher Naugler , Brenda Hemmelgarn, Paul Woods, Dan Henne

Vitamin D utilization inCalgary: sociodemographic correlates and linkage to external databases.

$9,350.00

Dr. Guangming Han, M. Duggan, D. Sidhu

ImmunohistochemicalProfiles of High-GradeEndometrial Carcinomas

$9,901.00

Dr. Alex Chin, Morley D. Hol-lenberg, Rithwik Ramachandran, Liena Zhao

Development of an assay which quantifiesproteinase-activated receptor activation as a diagnostic marker of organ-specific inflammation.

$35,000.00

Total $64,101.00


Outcomes Resulting from Previously Funded CLS Research Competition Projects

• Effect of killer cell immunoglobulin like receptor (KIR) and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) ligand incompatibility on human renal transplantation. Dr. Faisal Khan, S. Yilmaz, N. Berka, A. Sar. Establishment of KIR (killer immunoglobulin like receptor’s) genotyping assay. Data derived from the project allowed validation of the KIR-HLA ligand incompatibility influences graft outcome of renal transplantation. The results of the study improved understanding about the role of NK cells and their immunoregulation by KIR’s in allo-immune responses following renal transplantation.

• The roles of PTEN, TMPSSR2-ERG fusion and SPINK 1 in metastatic prostate cancer and their role in prostate cancer heterogeneity. Dr. Tarek Bismar, S. Liu, L. Peterson, M. Phillips. Carried out FISH and IHC for ERG, PTEN, SPINK 1 and correlated the findings in cohorts. The results confirmed significant interplay between all those markers, which point to early suggestion into the ability of characterizing molecular subtypes of prostate cancer based on the interaction of those markers.

• Molecular Detection of Human Polyomavirus Infection in Renal Tranplant Tissue. Dr. Douglas Demetrick, H. Benediktsson. The investigators have developed an oligonucleotide in situ hybridization assay for mRNAs of two BK virus genes (Agno and VPI genes) which may yield an improved test for identifying BK nephrology in renal transplant patients. This would potentially allow earlier and more accurate treatment, resulting in saved kidney transplant grafts.

• Development of a Conception Cohort to Study the Utilization of Prenatal Screening. Dr. Andrew Lyon/Suzanne Tough J. Johnson, F Bernier, MS Rose. Research indicated that only approximately 92% of pregnant women obtain a PNRC test from CLS during the course of their pregnancy. Analysis is still ongoing regarding the utilization of laboratory services in pregnancy and how these are influenced by patient and provider characteristics.

• The Role of PTCH1 and GLI1 in breast cancer. Dr. Patricia Tang M. Webster, D. Heng, T. Magliocco. Developed the methodology to assess Gli1 and Gli2 protein expression in breast cancer cells using quantitative immunohistochemistry. This methodology can be used in the future as an exploratory biomarker for clinical hedgehog signalling pathway inhibitors. Created a Tissue Microarray of ER negative, PR negative breast cancer patients.

• Detection of non classical HLA antibody to MICA in patients with renal rejection in the Southern Alberta Renal Transplant program. Dr. Noureddine Berka Dr. W. Wang, Z. Gao, S. Yilmaz Validated an assay using the LABScreen® MICA Single Antigen technology to detect antibodies against a panel of 28 MICA antigens. The study lead to identification of a potential biomarker (presence of antibodies against MICA antigens) for the prediction of chronic and/or acute antibody mediated kidney allograft rejection.

• Screening for Lung Cancer with Sputum: Optimization of Sputum Preparation. Dr. M. Kelly, M. Khalil, V. Falck. Sputum samples with histologically proven lung cancer and control subjects were randomly divided into equal portions, one of which was processed by the


standard CLS method (thinprep, TP) and one by the experimental method (preservative preparation, PP). The research suggested that the preservative method can be applied in rural areas that do not have access to a highly technical laboratory. The sputum specimen can be preserved and sent to a central laboratory for processing by this method or processed using low-tech equipment and later sent to a cytopathology department. This method could allow for wider use of sputum to screen for lung cancer.

• The application of conventional and novel human hematopoietic progenitor cell functional assays as predictors of engraftment. Dr. Nicole Prokopishyn, J. Luider. The research resulted in a better understanding and appreciation of the role of post-thaw CD34 enumeration (post-thaw CD34 counts are valuable markers of engraftment), in the laboratory and how this can be used to improve the quality of results generated for assistance with clinical treatment. The ALDH and CFU assays are very doable and can be utilized but do not provide any additional information and it is therefore not fiscally sound to use them as predictors of engraftment in Autologous transplant products. There may be a role of these functional assays in other Cellular Therapy Products (CTPs) such as Cord Blood in which the CD34 enumeration is not as accurate at assessing engraftment potential.

• An “observer-independent” and fully quantitative Tissue Microarray (TMA) based classification is predictive of survival among Multiple Myeloma (MM) patients. Dr. Adnan Mansoor/ Nizar Bahlis, D. Stewart, A. Magliocco This research evaluated the application of routine Laboratory technique ( IHC) on BM biopsies of multiple myeloma patients and correlated the predictive value of these markers in a clinical laboratory setting. These markers were identified by a discovery platform through experimental methodology like Gene expression profile. This will enable the use of markers for routine clinical management in the future. The research evaluated the observer dependent evaluation of staining pattern with automated platform like HisotRX.

CLS Summer Studentship CompetitionsThe Research Department offers two summer student award programs: Master of Biomedical Technology Program and the CLS Undergraduate Competition.


Calgary Laboratory Services Undergraduate Competition 2011

Supervisor Student Project

Dr. Sean Gui Samuel Jensen Novel Immunohistochemical Markers for Detecting Colitis- Associated Colorectal Dysplasia

Dr. Adnan Mansoor

Sarah-Joy Haggstrom

Identification of gene signatures for extra medullary plasmacytoma compared to Multiple Myeloma

Dr.Noureddine Berka

Christina Gaspar Effect of Killer cell immunoglobulin like receptor (KIR) gene profile of the renal transplant recipients on the outcomeshuman renal transplantation

Dr. Tarek Bismar

Michael Dolph Characterizing Novel Biomarkers inProstate Cancer Progression

Master of Biomedical Technology Competition 2011

Supervisor Student Project

Dr. Adnan Mansoor

Rabeya Zarrin Predicting clinical outcome among Mantle cell lymphoma patients following high dose chemotherapy and bonemarrow stem cell implant (BMT)

Dr. Deirdre Church

Golsa Razian Development of a multiplex RT-PCR Assay for Detection of Genital Mycoplasmas in Urogenital Specimens from High-Riskpatients attending the Calgary Provincial STD Clinic: A Pilot Project

Researchand

Development

Our

Our Peopleand ThoseWe Serve

CLS continues to recruit additional medical/scientific and technical staff where necessary, to meet workload increases.

Seventeen Anatomic Pathology and 2 Neuropathology residents were trained in 2011. In addition, Residents from other training programs completed rotations at CLS.

CLS continues to provide practicum sites for up to 45 MLT Medical Laboratory Technologist students, up to 100 MLA Medical Laboratory Assistant students and 2 Cytotechnology students annually.


Employee Health and Safety (EH&S)

South Health Campus Recruiting (SHC)

The health and safety of employees is a core principle for Calgary Laboratory Services. Health and safety is understood to be the responsibility of everyone at all levels within the organization, working together to ensure staff, visitors, contractors and anyone affected by CLS’ operations are kept healthy and safe.Recent employee health and safety initiatives include:

• The implementation of a 2nd generation safety-engineered butterfly needle which has decreased needle stick injuries to employees by over 80%.

• Ongoing involvement from the EH&S Department on construction and renovation projects.

• Diligent staff training in areas including WHMIS, TDG, First Aid/CPR, Respiratory Use, etc.

• Continued front line support and dedication from the Safety/SHMIS Designate Team.

• Management System improvements for the MSDS inventory, and tracking accidents/incidents/illnesses for trending and continuous learning.

• Installation of ergonomic benches to increase staff safety and comfort at Peter Lougheed Centre Transfusion Medicine.

• Implementation of “Working Alone” solution for Mobile employees on evenings and weekends that checks-in with them throughout their shift to ensure their safety.

• Purchase of Bluetooth hands-free devices were implemented for all Mobile staff to ensure safe, undistracted driving.

• Implementation of stainer/coverslipper instrumentation in Anatomic Pathology to improve efficiency and staff safety.

Dedication and commitment to health and safety is demonstrated by CLS’ voluntary participation in annual COR (Certificate of Recognition) audits. This audit process evaluates CLS’ Health and Safety program against a set of established standards by certified auditors and the audit reviewed as a quality assurance practice by the Alberta Safety Council. The audit process facilitates continuous improvement via creating an action plan based on recommendations made by the auditors. In the Fall of 2011, CLS participated in an external audit to maintain the COR certification.

Recruitment strategies are underway to staff the SHC in time for the opening in the fall of 2012. Human Resources has worked collaboratively with Health Sciences Association of Alberta (HSAA) to establish the principles and guidelines necessary to ensure the laboratory is staffed and ready for opening. Medical and Scientific staff have already been recruited including:

• Medical Microbiologist• Clinical Chemist• General Pathologist

Canadian Patient Safety Week (CPSW)

In order to create awareness of patient safety issues and share information about best practices, CLS endorses and promotes Canadian Patient Safety Week (CPSW). CPSW is an annual, national initiative of the Canadian Patient Safety Institute (CPSI).


Enhancing Trust to Create a Healthy Workplace

Trust is the foundation of all successful relationships, which is one of five pillars of CLS’ overall strategic framework. Enhancing Trust was a strategic initiative developed with a mandate to work closely with employees to explore ways of building trust through effective communication. A committee of involved employees, called the Employee Representative Committee (ERC), was formed. This hard-working group of employees worked closely with their peers and the leadership of CLS and had a very busy year.

The ERC consists of 7 employees and 1 Executive sponsor who:

• Help create a culture of trust, mutual understanding, and communication

• Encourage a comfortable and respectful work atmosphere • Build and maintain constructive relationships among and across all CLS

areas• Identify issues, exchange information, participate in discussion and the

development of recommendations where appropriate• Make recommendations to CLS Executive on ways to improve

communications and relationships to build trust within the organization• Encourage employee involvement in the varied programs offered by

CLS• Express opinions and openly share information

With the support of the Executive and the leaders of CLS, the ERC has accomplished the following initiatives:

• Reviewed the questions for the 2010 and 2011 Employee Engagement Survey prior to distribution

• Reviewed the survey information and worked with an employee focus group in making recommendations for action

• Instrumental in increasing the 2011 Employee Engagement Survey participation rate to 58% from 42% in 2010.

• Helped to establish a Communication Designates program which is a group of employees, working directly with the ERC, to pass and collect information important to employees.

• Made recommendations on how to provide more information to employees on the existing sick leave policies and processes

• Provided feedback on the results of the communication focus groups, which were held as a result of the employee engagement feedback

• Provided feedback on internal communications forums

The ERC vision, where everyone is valued and appreciated, is in concert with the belief that open and honest communication can break down barriers and build better relationships.

CLS Employee Learning Opportunities

This past year, CLS has continued to offer many learning opportunities for employees and leaders. These programs are aligned with organizational strategies and initiatives.

1. Speed of Trust – a Stephen Covey program that focuses on the message that trust is the one thing that changes everything. This is a key initiative through the organization, and the program reinforces that the ability to establish, extend and restore trust with all stakeholders – customers, business partners, clients and coworkers – is the key leadership competency of the


new global economy. This program will be offered to leaders at all levels of the organization in 2012.

2. Essential Conversations – an intensive experiential learning program that assists leaders in having the critical conversations necessary on a daily basis. These could include conversations to coach, to encourage growth of employees, conversations for correction and for mastery. Participants were provided one-on-one coaching and assistance in honing their leadership skills.

3. Understanding Yourself as a Leader - is an introductory leadership development program designed to assist in the growth and development of emerging front line leaders. This twelve-part series requires a one-year commitment, and helps our emerging leaders build self-awareness and help individuals understand the expectations of their leadership roles.

4. Book Club – the Book Club series is now offered to senior level leaders, middle management and front-line leaders. The series has been very popular as the participants learn through leadership literature and engage in discussion focused on their readings. With minimal resources, leadership skills are enhanced by incorporating teachings from the literature into the workplace.

5. Fierce Conversations – a program which has been offered to employees at all levels of leadership. The program has various models to assist individuals with confrontation discussions and coaching discussions. Fierce Conversations will be offered to all employees in 2012.

6. Employee Continuing Education – Employees are invited to attend sessions on various programs:

a. Relationship Management, Building Trust – focuses on building trust and credibility in work relationships. Clarifies the elements of trust and identifies the behaviours of the people we trust.b. You and Change – The workshop provides an understanding of the change process, identifies common reactions to change and provides skills to help lead the individual through change.c. Communication Skills – Workshop helps participants to understand

and enhance their communication skills, and to understand their communication style.

CLS Student Grant ProgramFor the third straight year, CLS has offered the Student Grant Program to employees to support dependents in their pursuit of higher education. The Grant is available to those dependents that are attending a post-secondary institution and satisfactorily meet all eligibility criteria. Six applicants were randomly drawn from a total of 44 applications qualified for the 2011 Student Grant Program.

Assisting youth in reaching their educational goals is just one way that CLS demonstrates its commitment to further learning. We are proud to once again offer this exciting opportunity to our employees’ dependents.

MLA GetawayAs part of continuing education for Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLA) a one day education symposium is organized on an annual basis. Various topics are presented that include: health and wellness, personal growth, and enhancing technical knowledge. This event is well attended and enjoyed by up to 200 participants each year.


Implementation of Mobile Service “Appointment Reminder” Module

As part of the Mobile Collection Service, “home” patients receive a phone call prior to their scheduled appointment from a CLS Mobile Phlebotomist. With the implementation of an Automated Messaging Module, these patients now receive a computerized message reminding them of their appointment. The messaging module features technology that allows personalized instruction and allows the patient to confirm or cancel an appointment by pressing the appropriate keys on their touch tone phone. In addition, the software auto-detects answering machines and leaves a message without any prompts. This initiative allows for better management of our current resources; freeing up a skilled phlebotomist to focus on phlebotomy.

Alberta Top EmployerCLS was named one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2011 for the third consecutive year. To be included in the top employer list, companies must demonstrate their quality in term of eight key areas: physical workplace; work and social atmosphere; health, financial and family benefits; vacation and time off; employee communications; performance management; training and skills development; and community involvement. Employers are compared to other

organizations in their field to determine which offers the most progressive and forward-thinking programs.

We are proud to be one of Alberta’s Top Employer however are even more proud of our employees, who collectively make CLS successful and a great place to work. This award belongs to each and every one of our employees and we are very proud to share it with them.

Employee Appreciation Week

Employee Engagement Survey

To show thanks and appreciation for the continual professionalism and hardwork, CLS designated a week in October to be Employee Appreciation Week. In addition to making CLS one of Alberta’s Top Employers for the past three consecutive years, our employees are also the reason why we have made such a positive impact to the health care system in Alberta. Their individual talents and professional commitment continue to contribute on a daily basis to the delivery of laboratory services.

An Employee Engagement Survey was conducted in the fall of 2011. The results showed a 16% increase in staff participation and an overall increase in staff engagement to 73%.

Town Hall meetings will be held early in 2012 to invite employees to speak with the Executive Team about the results, and develop action plans to improve the work environment.


Customer Satisfaction Survey

Customer Feedback

CLS regularly monitors customer service and satisfaction in order to measure how well we meet the needs of our internal and external customers.The Customer Service and Satisfaction Quality System Essential gives high-level direction around how CLS will assess internal and external customers’ satisfaction with our services and respond to their feedback.Customer satisfaction is assessed through:

• Surveys• CLS Feedback Forms• Focus groups/consultation• Needs assessment

Voice of the customer surveys were conducted in February 2011 to obtain feedback from:

CLS highly values feedback and uses it to make operational and system changes in order to continually improve the quality of services provided by CLS.

CLS encourages patients, their families and healthcare service providers to communicate their positive feedback as well as any suggestions or concerns they may have about our services. Good communication with laboratory personnel is important at all times, and even more so if there is a concern. In most cases, issues can be resolved quickly by speaking with laboratory personnel at the point of care/service.

Information about the CLS Feedback policy and process is available on the CLS website. In addition, there are now more ways for patients and healthcare providers to submit feedback or communicate a concern that was not resolved at the point of care/service. They may:

• Complete a CLS Feedback Form, which are available at all CLS Patient Service Centres, hospital Outpatient Collection Laboratories or on the CLS website

• Call the central intake telephone messaging system• Contact the site Supervisor or Manager


BravoNew CLS Recognition Program

Clinical Education Preceptor Education

New Generation Students

To recognize excellent performance and acknowledge long-term employees, CLS implemented a new recognition program called Bravo. By investing in our people, we anticipate this program will enhance employee satisfaction and engagement and create a culture of recognition and appreciation throughout the organization.

Preceptors are CLS staff members who participate in the development, coordination and monitoring of student training. Their role includes assisting students achieve clinical competencies, developing learning plans, directing clinical activities and providing ongoing guidance, support, role modeling and consultation with the other preceptors and teaching staff. CLS recognizes the need for Preceptor education throughout the organization. Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) offers continuous registration to an on-line preceptor course which is available to all Preceptors within CLS.

CLS is committed to life-long learning and continues to sponsor programs such as “New Generation Students. This is a summer internship program enabling Grade 11 students the opportunity to explore a health-related career during a six week period. The students apply for available positions within the laboratory and participate in an interview process for subsequent internship selection. Our experience with the program has been invaluable as it provides a mentorship opportunity for staff as well as showcasing the field of laboratory medicine to potential future employees.

• Patients visiting Patient Service Centres and hospital outpatient laboratories – overall favourable rating: 94%

• Acute care site patient care unit managers/supervisors and nursing educators – overall favourable rating: 83%

Feedback was used to target areas for possible improvements to better develop CLS services.

Researchand

Development

OurMeeting the

Needsof Healthcare

Today / Planningfor the Future

Building a foundation for success now and for the future

Dr. Ranjit Waghray and Cytotecthnologist Marcela Addurat

CLS “GOES LIVE” WITH FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATE (FNA) CLINIC

In October of 2011, Calgary

Laboratory Services began

offering a Fine Needle

Aspirate (FNA) clinic service

at the Peter Lougheed

Hospital Outpatient Clinics

Department. The FNA clinic,

which is located close to the

PLC west entrance at 3500-26

Ave NE, is operated by CLS Cytopathologists every Friday (except statutory holidays)

between the hours of 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Fine Needle Aspiration is a biopsy procedure to obtain a sample of cells for diagnosis

of superficial lesions (lumps and bumps). When a suspicious lump or mass is found

during physical examination, a biopsy is usually in order. Fine Needle Aspiration, is

a quick, simple and minimally invasive procedure to obtain a diagnostic sample

without resorting to a surgical biopsy. Often, additional samples can be taken for

special tests such as flow cytometry, cytogenetics and other molecular studies at

the same time. Now doctors have the option of sending their patients to the CLS FNA

Clinic and, in certain situations, potentially avoiding a surgical procedure.

This new FNA Clinic benefits Albertans by offering this much needed, underutilized

and inexpensive procedure in Calgary. This is an integral part of CLS services

available to patients and physicians in the Alberta Health Services South Zone.


Extracorporeal Life Support (ECLS) Program

CLS Business Continuity Plan

Transition of Clinical Laboratory Testing from TBCC to CLS

In the autumn of 2011, the Extracorporeal Life Support (ECLS) program was initiated to provide care for a small number of critically ill children each year.

The ECLS is used when children are transported from Calgary to Edmonton for transplant. Alberta Children’s Hospital Transfusion Medicine department has developed an “ECLS pack” that consists of 3 units of red cells, 2 units of plasma and a dose of platelets, the majority of these products are used to prime the circuit and maintain the child’s blood volume during the procedure. ACH TM implemented a standing order with Canadian Blood Services to ensure the availability of fresh red blood cell units for ECLS (3 O Positive, 3 O Negative arrive daily). When the child is transported to Edmonton for transplant, TM prepares a box with 5 - 6 units of blood to travel with the child.

Alberta Children’s Hospital Rapid Response Laboratory staff are now supporting the Transfusion Medicine needs of the new ECLS Program which sustains pediatric patients requiring transport to Edmonton for further care.

CLS has recently reviewed and updated our Business Continuity Plan (BCP) that contains procedures and guidelines to help recover and restore disrupted processes and resources to normal operational status. The BCP has been prepared to assist the organization in managing a serious disruptive crisis in a controlled and structured manner. It contains information on emergency contact details, strategies to mitigate impact, procedures to be implemented and communication processes to be followed in response to a serious disruptive event.

CLS is an active participant in AHS Laboratory Services Safety, Emergency Preparedness and Business Continuity Network. The major function of this committee is to collaboratively develop and exchange information regarding workplace safety, emergency preparedness and business continuity practices/processes and recommend best practices.

In December of 2011 an agreement was made between Alberta Health Services Laboratory Services, AHS Cancer Services and Calgary Laboratory Services that CLS will provide clinical laboratory testing services for AHS Cancer Services for the Tom Baker Cancer Centre (TBCC). The transition of clinical laboratory molecular and immunohistochemistry testing from TBCC to CLS ensures continuity of service quality in support of high quality patient care.

New Mobile Services ReportA new Mobile Services report was implemented which identifies if a home patient has been admitted to hospital and not available on their collection day. This process saves our staff an average of 7 unnecessary trips/day. Cancellations are managed real-time, eliminating the necessity of family or physician to inform us when the patient has returned home and requires resumption of service.


Calgary Laboratory Services at South Health Campus

New Test for Helicobacter pylori

New National Living Donor Paired Exchange

CLS has been very busy in preparation for the opening of the laboratory at the new South Health Campus. Calgary Laboratory Services will occupy a space of 2945 net square meters. Areas/departments will include Accession, Anatomic Pathology, Hematology, Microbiology, Clinical Biochemistry, Transfusion Medicine, Research and Quality.

A working group consisting of representatives from each of the above departments has been actively involved in the project from the beginning (2008). It is anticipated that the laboratory will open using cross trained medical laboratory technologists with a review later on as more complex programs are introduced.

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that can cause ulcers of the stomach and duodenum (peptic ulcer disease). Treatment of infection results in healing of the ulcers and prevents recurrent disease. This infection is easily diagnosed with a urea breath test in symptomatic individuals. The infection may also be diagnosed by the detection of bacterial antigens in patient stools. Previously this assay was done on referral to the Mayo Clinic. Calgary Laboratory Services has introduced this testing for patients in Alberta. Performance here at Calgary Laboratory Services has resulted in reduced cost for testing, and a faster turnaround time for results.

Kidney transplant patients who do not have a matched donor tend to stay on wait list for 5-8 years. In 2009 the CLS tissue typing laboratory working together with other Canadian Transplants programs and Tissue Typing laboratories, was able to workup 129 registered pairs and 2 Non Directed Anonymous Donors (NDADs).

The Registry was able to identify 22 proposed matches in 6 chains. Patients from 6 provinces were able to match with a donor in this match run.

The highlights of this Match Cycle are: • 10 transplant programs received matches • 20 Registered Recipients received proposed matches.

in Canada we have completed 122 transplants to date.


New Admission Screening for MRSA and VRE

Oncology Surgery Increase

Microbiology Implements New Test

Colorectal Biopsy Increase

A point prevalence study was performed in 2010 in conjunction with Infection Prevention & Contol (IP&C) to determine Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci (VRE) rates at the four acute care sites.

Based on the results of the study, a new admission screening program for MRSA and VRE was implemented in January 2011 to help reduce transmission of these antibiotic resistant organisms.

In April of 2011, the Foothills Medical Center dedicated one of their new operating rooms to urgent cancer related surgery to decrease patient wait times. This equated to approximately 500 additional cases/year. Anatomic Pathology at FMC was able to support the new initiative with the addition of a full time Pathology Technician and a part time Medical Lab Technologist. Additional Anatomic Pathology workload was handled through internal Locum Pathologists.

A similar initiative was also rolled out at the Rockyview General Hospital – Anatomic Pathology was able to manage the increase in workload with the current staffing levels.

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) can be a cause of bloody diarrhea in humans and in some cases, cause hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). It is transmitted through contaminated water, improperly cooked food or through human contact. Generally, only the E.coli O157:H7 serotype of STEC is routinely detected in the clinical microbiology laboratory. A new test to detect other serotypes of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) was implemented in Microbiology in June 2011.

In September 2011, the Colon Cancer Screening Center increased the number of colorectal biopsies performed; again to reduce the patient wait time. Approximately 40 patient cases/day were received and tested by Anatomic Pathology at Foothills Medical Centre. Additional surgical pathology workload was handled with internal Locum Pathologists and an additional Surgivcal Pathologist is being recruited on a go forward basis.

Relocation of Cochrane Patient Service Centre

The CLS Patient Service Centre in Cochrane relocated to the new Cochrane Community Health Centre. CLS will operate the PSC and an on-site Testing Laboratory in support of Urgent Care.


Calgary Rural Laboratories and CLS Integration

In 2011, an integration initiative between CLS and Calgary Rural Laboratories (CRL) took place. In addition to support for rural physicians, this integration has enhanced services to these rural laboratories. Initiatives underway include standardizing of Quality Assurance tracking and review, Proficiency testing, written procedures and policies, requisitions and handling of various documentation. The CLS Guide to Services, located on our website (www.calgarylabservices.com) will soon include information pertaining to the Calgary rural sites, to reduce possible confusion for physicians and patients moving between rural and urban locations. The Okotoks Health and Wellness Laboratory expanded their testing menu this fall and will soon have the same testing menu as the Health Centre Testing Labs at Airdrie and Cochrane.

“One Patient Flow”

In order to improve patient wait times in our Patient Service Centres, the “One Patient Flow” process was introduced. Originally piloted at Sunridge PSC, the process has now been incorporated into Beddington and McKnight locations with plans to expand the process to additional PSCs.

When arriving at a PSC, the patient is seen by a single staff member who follows them through their visit, completing both the data entry and sample collection process. Previously, each part of the process would have been completed by separate CLS staff.

Introduction of the “One Patient Flow” process has resulted in the reduction in patient wait times and also addressed the issue of patient information privacy. With the introduction of this process, patients are questioned about personal information in the privacy of the collection room, rather than when they arrive at the main desk.

Positive feedback from patients was immediate:

“This new system is amazing; I hope all the labs start to do this.” “The wait time was so fast, I didn’t even have time to sit.” “I appreciate the confidentiality now that you ask me everything in the room.”

Improvements in Hydrogen Breath Testing for Small Bowel Bacterial Overgrowth

A new instrument for Hydrogen Breath Testing was introduced in 2011. Sample stability was greatly improved with this instrumentation, allowing for an increase in the number of patients tested per day in the GI clinic and eliminating a 6 month wait list.

New collection devices are used with the new instrument. These new devices have allowed a cost savings of 85% compared to the former collection units.

Bilary Atresia ScreeningBilary Atresia screening was implemented in 2011 for the pediatric patient populations (1 week to 4 months of age) in both Calgary Urban and Rural Regions Bilary Atresia is the number 1 reason for pediatric liver transplants.


Major New Instrumentation at CLS

PTH Post Thyroidectomy

New automated chemistry, urinalysis and hematology analyzers were implemented across multiple sites including the Diagnostic and Scientific Centre and all four acute care hospital laboratories in 2011. Automation allows the laboratory to accommodate high and increasing test volumes to achieve greater efficiencies, better and more standardized differential results and improved laboratory workflow.

The turnaround time for Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) testing (required approximately 4 hours post- surgery to assess treatment required for thyroidectomy patients) was reduced by implementing the testing at several locations. Rockyview General Hospital, Peter Lougheed Centre and Foothills Medical Centre now all perform this test on-site.

Implementation of New Laboratory Service Delivery Models of Testing

• Implemented Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing in December 2011 on abnormal PAPs to confirm the abnormalities due to HPV infection and refer patients with positive results for colposcopy.

• Purchased temporary glucose meters for glucose testing on all babies in the Calgary zone. This was partly in response to repeated Reporting and Learning System reports from nursing indicating that meter and laboratory glucose results were not adequately correlating which prompted further investigation and action.

• Enhanced testing protocol for Hydrogen Breath Testing allowing CLS to increase the number of patients that can be tested each week, reducing testing costs and allowing for the potential to offer this test to other areas of the province due to increased sample stability

• Developed a Fast Vancomycin Resistant Enterococcus (VRE) PCR assay to assist in the identification of VREs which are strains of bacteria that do not respond to antibiotics.


Clinical Education Programs

As part of the workforce strategy, CLS partners with the educational institutes of Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), Alberta Business and Education Services (ABES) and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT). CLS provides practicum placements for 100 MLA students annually and up to 45 MLT students and 2 Cytotechnology students. In 2011, Clinical Education introduced new practicum placements for the SAIT Health Information Management and Health Information Office Assistant programs.

The CLS simulated laboratories continue to be utilized to assist with the teaching of MLT students. Students working alongside dedicated preceptors are able to refine clinical knowledge and skills in the areas of Microbiology, Urinalysis, Transfusion Medicine and Hematology differentials. The additional equipment consisting of digital camera, microscope and network connection to LCD screen all enhance student teaching.

Researchand

Development

Our

Our Corporate and Social

Responsibility

Environmental Commitment

Reducing our environmental impact and being environmentally responsible means demonstrating our commitment to the community we live in and serve, as well as on the larger scale. CLS has successfully adopted an effective Environmental Management System, based on three fundamental “Pillars”, Waste Management, Energy Conservation and Sustainable Procurement. Charged with sustaining these pillars is CLS’ Environmental Committee (The Green Team). The Green Team has implemented many initiatives corresponding to these pillars including:

• Employee participation in two city park clean-ups (Bowmont Park and Elbow Island Park).

• Support an electronics recycling program.

• Maintenance of a plastics recycling program at the Diagnostic & Scientific Centre (goal of at least 75% landfill diversion).

• Encouragement and assistance to employees having home energy audits conducted.

• Maintenance of an internal website that includes: a carpool section; a “Recyclopedia” that provides information on what can be recycled; and other environmental resources.

• Hosting of an Environmental Fair, with vendors displaying environmental products and services.


“Helping Hands”CLS Staff Volunteer Committee

One of CLS’ newest initiatives is the creation of a CLS Volunteer program called Helping Hands. This is an initiative that is near and dear to many of our employees, and a steering committee was established to lead the organization in enhancing our corporate social responsibility.

The committee established Terms of Reference to establish parameters for how employees of CLS would support their community. The committee has

agreed that the citizens of Calgary could use our help and has established their first year’s mandate to support families, children and veterans.

The Christmas Donation drive was a huge success, bringing smiles to the faces of Calgarians in need. There were over 2500 items donated to the Interfaith Food Bank, and more than 2500 items for the Veterans Food Bank. There were a huge amount of towels, bedding and baby supplies (The Tower of Towels) donated to Neighbourlink to assist needy families. To add to the many donations from generous CLS employees, many volunteered their time to Meals on Wheels and wrapped gifts at Westbrook Mall over the Christmas season.

Sorting some of the donations received for both the Veterans and Interfaith Food Banks


Clinical Education in the Community

Clinical Education supports those individuals in the community that aspire to have a career within a medical diagnostic laboratory. CLS has attended High School career days throughout the city and tours of the Diagnostic Scientific Center are offered to prospective students applying to our partnering educational institutes. Additionally representatives from Clinical Education participated in a career evening for the Youth Possibilities Program (YPP) of the Centre for Newcomers to Calgary.

New Eco-Friendly Equipment

• A new immunostaining platform was introduced in May 2011 to improve the quality of antibody staining, speed and efficiency of testing. The instrumentation enables the staff to continually load the instrument with slides for staining based on volume of workload. Like the rapid tissue processors, the units produce significantly less chemical waste to help the department become more eco-friendly.

• Two rapid tissue processors were implemented to improve efficiency and quality of tissue preservation. This new technology provides processing flexibility for the laboratory by offering a high throughput capability and same day diagnosis for rush or STAT specimens. The onboard reagent management system also provides better utilization of reagents thereby producing less waste which assists the laboratory in working towards a “green” environment.

Our first year of Helping Hands was a huge success. The employees of CLS are looking for more opportunities to give back to this great community of Calgary.

Donations to the Veterans Food Bank

DEPARTMENT OF PATHOLOGY & LABORATORY MEDICINEAWARDS - 2011

Dr. Hallgrimur Benediktsson • Guenter Distinguished Achievement Award for contributions in International Health.

Dr. Tarek Bismar • 2011 CAP Junior Scientist Award.

Dr. Arthur W. Clark • Faculty of Medicine “Social Accountability” Award.

Dr. Maire Duggan • Distinction Ambassador international co-workers “Ambassador” for the United States and Canadian

Academy of Pathology, March 2001-March 2013.

Dr. Marc Dupre • University of Calgary, Dept of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (Calgary, Alberta, Canada)

Teacher of the Year (2010-2011).

Dr. Jeff Joseph• Lifetime Achievement Award - Smith Distinguished Achievement Award for Senior Faculty, University of

Calgary.

Dr. Martin Koebel • Research award - Young investigator award ‘Scully award’ of the International Society of

Gynecological Pathologists.

Dr. Martha Lyon• Clinical achievement - invitation to speak at a prestigious conference - Speaking Invitation at AACC:

Arnold O Beckman Conference, San Diego, California,April, 2011.• Research award - Annual Meeting Best Abstract Award; AACC Critical and Point of Care testing 23rd

International Symposium, Boston , MA, Sept 2010.

Dr. Cynthia Trevenen • Provincial non-government organization - Alberta Medical Association - Long Term Service Award.

Dr. Kiril Trpkov • Clinical achievement award - Physician Recognition Award, Medical Staff Association, Rockyview

General Hospital.

Dr. Jim Wright • Administrative service award - International Society for Pediatric Pathology Scroll of appreciation for

outstanding planning and execution of the SPP Fall Meeting, 2010 Banff, AB. Presented at SPP Spring Meeting, San Antonio, TX. This is the only such award ever given by the Society.

Dr. Kunmyan Zhang • Mentoring award - Canadian College of Microbiologists (CCM) Environmental Microbiology Award

(Mentoring).

9, 3535 Research Road NWCalgary, AB T2L 2K8

Phone: 403-770-3500Email: [email protected]: www.calgarylabservices.com

© Calgary Laboratory Services Communications Department

Documents

2011 CLS Report to the Community - calgarylabservices.com · CLS will provide and promote safe, ... • The CLS Tissue Typing Laboratory underwent a successful recertification