Charles River Telepathology Study to Include Augmentiqs

The Charles River Telepathology study is set to begin with Augmentiqs. Charles River Laboratories (CRL) is one of the world’s largest Contract Research Organizations, boasting 80 sites in 23 countries, and nearly $2 billion in annual revenues. Conducting research for every major pharmaceutical company in the world, CRL employs over 100 toxicologic pathologists who are involved in the toxicologic research of 80% of FDA approved drugs. Founded in 1947, CRL has grown into today’s leading CRO by focusing on good science, organizational growth and cost-based metrics.

CRL plans to conduct an in-depth Return on Investment (ROI) pilot study on the use of Augmentiqs for real-time telepathology for US and Canada-based remote pathologists. The study will look at savings in pathologist work hours, cycle time and logistic expenses.

Benefits of Charles River Telepathology Implementation
CRL sites are operated independently of each other, with a number of sites employing pathologists working off-site. Without the advantages digital pathology affords, remote pathologists may be required to complete extra travel, extend deadlines (longer cycle time), use work time for shipping logistics, and use suboptimal methods for microscopic consultations, all resulting in more difficult data analysis and reporting.

Planned Study Parameters
• Charles River telepathology across multiple remote sites
• Quantify use of system, and pre-set ROI parameters
• Record soft parameters, i.e., client satisfaction, ease of use & quality

Charles River: “Telepathology from Augmentiqs is a microscope-based approach to digital pathology and enhanced communication between remote pathologists. The planned study includes the piloting of several systems from Augmentiqs to evaluate potential impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of telepathology. In this effort Charles River is measuring the impact of the Augmentiqs system on the workflow and productivity of the remote pathologist. Initial results of the pilot are expected in 2019.”