Apollo Diagnostics’ Central Reference Laboratory Processes 8.6 Million Tests in First Year
Chennai: Apollo Diagnostics has marked the first anniversary of its Digi-Smart Central Reference Laboratory (CRL) in Chennai, highlighting a year of significant advancements in the diagnostics sector. Since its launch in April 2025, the facility has grown to become South and Southeast Asia’s fourth-largest integrated laboratory, strengthening the region’s diagnostic capabilities.
Built on a digital-first framework powered by advanced automation and Lean Six Sigma principles, the CRL has focused on improving accuracy, efficiency, and scalability in medical testing.
Key Milestones in Year One
- 8.6 million tests processed within the first 12 months
- 86% automation achieved across laboratory processes
- 40% increase in test volumes while maintaining performance standards
- 99.9% adherence to analytical turnaround time (TAT) with near-zero error rates
Speaking on the occasion, Prathap C. Reddy, Founder and Chairman of Apollo Hospitals Group, described the CRL as a milestone in the evolution of diagnostics.
“Our Digi-Smart Central Reference Laboratory represents a defining moment in advancing healthcare through precision, scale, and purpose. Every sample represents a life, and every result carries responsibility,” he said, adding that the integration of technology and clinical excellence has enabled the facility to process millions of tests with high accuracy while maintaining safety and reliability.
He further noted that future integration of advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and genomic science is expected to enhance early detection and personalized treatment.
Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals Group, emphasized the role of digital innovation in improving patient care.
“We are not just celebrating technical milestones, but the fusion of digital intelligence and human care. With a 47% improvement in turnaround times and AI-driven auto-validation systems, we are enabling faster and more informed clinical decisions,” she said.
The Digi-Smart CRL uses robotics, high-definition imaging, and machine learning algorithms to streamline processes, reduce errors, and accelerate reporting timelines. Its hub-and-spoke “cluster consolidation” model allows it to serve a wide network across India and Southeast Asia, with a daily processing capacity of up to 40,000 samples.
In recognition of its impact, the laboratory received the “Laboratory Excellence Award for Outstanding Services” at the Global Diagnostic Directors’ Conclave, where it was the only laboratory to be honored.
