Key elements of the implementation of a quality system in three Finnish clinical laboratories.

The aim of the study was to discover how an implemented quality system succeeded in fulfilling the personnel and management expectations and to identify the factors that facilitate or hinder quality management implementation in clinical laboratories. The concepts assessed include leadership (commitment and change management), clear and common goals, human recourses focus, client focus, management by fact and process improvement. The quality process in the laboratories had not, even after 3-4 years, reached a level of acceptance allowing its use as a daily development tool. The factors that predict a success of the quality system include willingness to improve the laboratory services and to keep the process going and good atmosphere at work. However, the study showed that the senior managers of the laboratory should take a more visible role in leading the change, and emphasize more explicitly the long-term goals. The middle managers (physicians, biochemists and head technologists) should arrange opportunities for the staff to participate in the system and disseminate the information on, and practical applications of, the quality principles and tools. The staff should be more active in finding new information and in participating in the system.