Recent studies have investigated the re-organization and automation of laboratory medicine as a challenge for the hospital in terms of reduction of costs, turnaround time, workload, optimization of human and technological resources and improvement of safety. The purpose of this study was to conduct a health technology assessment (HTA) evaluation process about the possibility to re-organize and automate laboratory medicine at Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital.

The decision-oriented HTA (Do-HTA) method, involving the integration of the European Network for HTA (EUnetHTA) CoreModel and the Analytic Hierarchy Process, was applied to assess the best technology solution. Twenty-one professionals were involved to define tender specifications related to the adaptation works of the new dedicated rooms, and the automatic technologies and organizational solutions for the new laboratory department. Finally, two manufacturer companies were consulted.

Using Do-HTA, the study was focused on laboratory technologies while the infrastructure evaluation was conducted by the Engineering and Logistic Units of the hospital. Results showed that the total performance score of the first proposal was slightly higher (2.5 percent) than the second one, proving the comparable high qualitative level of both manufactures technologies. After an accurate analysis, evaluating all aspects (safety, clinical efficacy, cost, organization & technical criteria) and integrating the infrastructure evaluation, the decision has fallen upon the first company offer.

This HTA project provided an in-depth examination of two proposed technological and organizational solutions. Thanks to the Do-HTA method, which produced and developed data and all needed information, it was possible to guide and assist the decision makers on the choice between the two technical solutions.