Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – East Genomics Laboratory Hub

There are still few treatments, unfortunately for those with rare diseases, but there are gene therapies in development. Traditionally, there would be various tests for children with rare diseases and no diagnosis. In contrast, looking at the genome, you can often see a genetic cause and reassure parents in managing the disease.”

Genmed was appointed under an NHS framework agreement and selected by the Trust to provide a laboratory managed service contract. This contract enables the Trust to save time and resources as Genmed manages certain aspects of the Trust’s laboratory service, including management of its suppliers.

The managed service saves time and allows staff to concentrate on their laboratory work. Saskia Neuert, Senior Genetic Technologist at East GLH said, “The new way of working allows staff more time to concentrate on their clinical work, which is very helpful for workflow in the laboratory. As the health service recovers from COVID-19 and the number of outpatient appointments increase, having greater capacity to deal with increased throughput of samples is essential.” The genomics team will soon be utilising a dedicated online portal, which will provide further efficiencies.

Genmed’s Chief Executive, Jonathan Wedgbury, said: “We are proud to be working with the team at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust and facilitating the provision and future development of their genomic laboratory service. The managed service contract allows their leading genetics team to concentrate on supporting improved patient outcomes, utilising the latest state-of-the-art products and technology.”

Above, L to R: East GLH Senior Genetic Technologists Margarita Kolchagova and Saskia Neuert, Operations Manager Colin Carr, Genmed’s Business Development Manager Richard Massingham, and Georgina Corfield, East GLH Technical Lead.