Client: District of Columbia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (DCOCME)
Industry: Forensic Science
Location: District of Columbia
Project: Toxicology Batch Processing
Date Implemented: 2024
The District of Columbia’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (DCOCME) embarked on a transformative journey with Forensic Advantage (FA) to modernize its toxicology lab operations. Dr. Stephen Raso, Deputy Chief Toxicologist, shared how FA’s Toxicology Batch Processing software revolutionized their workflows, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accuracy in forensic investigations.
The Challenge: Transitioning from Paper-Based to Fully Automated Systems
When the toxicology lab first contacted Forensic Advantage in July 2019, the goal was clear: transition from cumbersome paper workflows to an integrated digital solution. Historically reliant on manual processes, the lab faced challenges maintaining operational consistency, managing case complexities, and adhering to quality standards.
The need for real-time data management, seamless collaboration across teams, and error-free reporting was critical. This set the stage for the custom implementation of FA’s Core Application for case management, Batch Processing for data workflows, and Litigation Packet Management for streamlined reporting.
The DCOCME Implementation: A Collaborative Process
Between 2020 and 2023, FA and DCOCME collaborated to tailor the software to the lab’s unique needs. Key developments included:
Core Application Enhancements: Automating case accessioning with customizable dropdowns for submission type, jurisdiction, and delivery methods. This ensured consistency and minimized manual data entry errors.
Batch Processing Optimization: Real-time bi-directional communication between lab equipment and the LIMS, allowing analysts to assign and process batch samples efficiently.
Litigation Packet Integration: Automated generation of detailed reports and resource management for court submissions.
The lab conducted a rigorous year-long validation process in 2023 to ensure a smooth transition. Analysts ran dual workflows, testing legacy and digital systems to identify and rectify potential issues before going live in 2024.
The Results: Streamlined Operations and Improved Oversight
Since adopting FA’s software, DCOCME has experienced significant improvements in its toxicology operations:
Efficiency Gains: Analysts can now process cases more quickly and accurately, focusing on analysis rather than manual data handling. The batch processing module minimizes redundant tasks and errors.
Enhanced Data Integrity: Automated checks ensure consistent, reliable results. The software tracks sample types and sources to maintain a flawless chain of custody.
Customizable Reporting: The system’s robust reporting capabilities allow analysts to track resource usage, document case histories, and provide clear, court-ready litigation packets.
Transparency and Traceability: Features like time-stamped comments in the case accessioning process provide a clear audit trail. Analysts can track name changes or sample updates, ensuring accountability at every step.
Resource Manager: allows DCOCME to efficiently manage chemical agents/reagents supplies and equipment to ensure that all resources used in analysis comply with the lab standards for calibration, maintenance, and chemical expiration. The resource information is automatically associated with each specific case.
Dr. Raso highlighted, “We’ve gone from a paper-heavy environment to being entirely paperless, with the exception of physical chain-of-custody forms. The customization and automation provided by Forensic Advantage have transformed our operations.”
Moving Forward: A Scalable Solution for Forensic Labs
DCOCME’s success story demonstrates the adaptability and scalability of Forensic Advantage’s solutions. By leveraging advanced tools like toxicology batch processing, forensic labs can future-proof their operations and deliver accurate, timely results.
Whether your lab is managing thousands of cases annually or looking to optimize workflows, Forensic Advantage’s Crime Lab Automation Solutions can provide the tools and support needed for success.
Comments