Labcorp, a global leader in laboratory services, announced a collaboration with Roche to implement the FDA-cleared VENTANA DP 600 and DP 200 digital slide scanners. This investment will allow pathologists to diagnose patients using high-resolution digital images, supporting improved accuracy and efficiency, while paving the way for future integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in pathology workflows.
Marcia Eisenberg, Labcorp’s chief scientific officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to adopting innovative technologies that enhance diagnostic capabilities. The transition to digital pathology addresses a looming shortage of nearly 5,700 pathologists in the U.S. by 2030 amid rising demand driven by an aging population and increased disease incidence.
The new digital workflow converts traditional glass slides into instantly accessible digital images that can be viewed on standard PCs, enabling remote consultations and eliminating the need for physical slide handling. This shift promises benefits such as enhanced access to expertise, streamlined operations, cost reductions, and a safer, more secure handling of precious tissue samples. Importantly, it lays the groundwork for future AI tools aimed at boosting diagnostic consistency and efficiency.
Building on its existing relationship with Roche and its Oncology digital pathology portfolio, Labcorp’s collaboration is seen as a significant step toward modernizing pathology labs. Michael Rivers, Roche’s life cycle leader for digital pathology, highlighted the partnership’s potential to deliver timely and effective patient care through innovative digital solutions.
This initiative further strengthens Labcorp’s dedication to expanding digital capabilities across its Diagnostics and Biopharma Laboratory Services, supporting global clinical trials with improved data sharing and centralized review processes.