Diagnostics in focus

Abbott Diagnostics | Core Laboratory

Welcome to Diagnostics in focus—join host Craig Ivany as he welcomes experts to explore the science, innovations, and evolving role of diagnostics in healthcare. The future of healthcare depends on how we use information—and diagnostics sits at the center of that transformation. Craig Ivany is a seasoned Canadian health system executive with over 25 years of leadership experience spanning hospital operations, national blood services, and major public and private laboratory networks. He has led large scale transformation as CEO of multiple provincial and regional laboratory organizations, built high performing teams across complex healthcare environments, and is widely recognized for his expertise in diagnostics strategy, system integration, and operational excellence. Craig serves on several healthcare boards, holds the ICD.D designation, is a Certified Health Executive, and is an Adjunct Professor in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of British Columbia, where he is also completing his PhD. The content on Diagnostics in focus is intended for healthcare professionals only. This podcast is intended for audiences in designated countries only. Accessing this content from outside the intended geography may result in information that is not relevant, accurate, or compliant with local regulatory requirements. The podcast channel and episodes are not intended for reposting or redistributing on non-Abbott websites or other external channels without express, written consent.

Episodes

  1. Sep 29

    The value of the lab beyond cost per test

    Healthcare organizations often measure laboratories by cost, efficiency, and test volumes, overlooking their broader impact on patient care and health system performance. In this episode, Tricia Ravalico, Director of Scientific Leadership, Core Diagnostics at Abbott, speaks with Khosrow Shotorbani, former healthcare CEO and longtime advocate for laboratory medicine, about redefining the value of diagnostics. Drawing on decades of leadership experience, Khosrow explains why laboratories should be viewed not as cost centers, but as strategic partners that improve clinical outcomes, reduce risk, and enhance healthcare efficiency. Together, they explore how laboratories can evolve from reactive service providers to predictive healthcare partners by identifying risk earlier, supporting preventive care, and enabling better clinical decisions. Their discussion highlights the vital role diagnostics plays in advancing value-based care and improving outcomes across the healthcare continuum.

    The value of the lab beyond cost per test

  2. Sep 29

    From sample to answer what really happens in the lab

    When a clinician orders a laboratory test, the expectation is straightforward: the result will be accurate, timely, and reliable. Yet behind every result lies a remarkably complex process designed to ensure the highest standards of quality and patient safety. In this episode, Dr. Colleen Strain, Manager of Scientific Leadership, Core Diagnostics at Abbott sits down with Sofia Irene Lopez, Founder and Head of Laboratories Biosalud from Guatemala explores the journey of a sample from collection to result and the precision, expertise, and safeguards required at every step along the way. While laboratory results may appear as simple numbers on a screen, they are the outcome of a highly coordinated system that integrates advanced technology, rigorous quality controls, and skilled laboratory professionals working behind the scenes. From collection, labeling, and transport to accessioning, preparation, analysis, verification, and reporting, a single sample passes through dozens of critical checkpoints. Each step is carefully managed to ensure consistency, accuracy, and trust in every result delivered to clinicians and patients.

    From sample to answer what really happens in the lab

  3. Sep 29

    Why diagnostics is the foundation of modern medicine

    Diagnostics plays a critical role across the patient journey, from early detection and diagnosis to clinical decisions and ongoing monitoring. Yet laboratory medicine is often viewed primarily as an operational service rather than a strategic clinical partner. In this episode, Tricia Ravalico, Director of Scientific Leadership, Core Diagnostics at Abbott, speaks with Professor Tomas Zima, President of EFLM and Executive Board Member of IFCC, about the evolving role of diagnostics in modern healthcare. Drawing on decades of leadership and advocacy, Prof. Zima explains why laboratory medicine deserves greater recognition as a clinical discipline and a stronger voice in healthcare policy and decision-making. Together, they discuss the growing importance of diagnostic insights, the risks of undervaluing laboratory expertise, and how stronger collaboration between clinicians and laboratorians improves patient outcomes. Their message is clear: diagnostics is the hidden science that saves lives, and empowering laboratories ultimately leads to better, more confident patient care.

    Why diagnostics is the foundation of modern medicine
  • 3 Episodes

About

Welcome to Diagnostics in focus—join host Craig Ivany as he welcomes experts to explore the science, innovations, and evolving role of diagnostics in healthcare. The future of healthcare depends on how we use information—and diagnostics sits at the center of that transformation. Craig Ivany is a seasoned Canadian health system executive with over 25 years of leadership experience spanning hospital operations, national blood services, and major public and private laboratory networks. He has led large scale transformation as CEO of multiple provincial and regional laboratory organizations, built high performing teams across complex healthcare environments, and is widely recognized for his expertise in diagnostics strategy, system integration, and operational excellence. Craig serves on several healthcare boards, holds the ICD.D designation, is a Certified Health Executive, and is an Adjunct Professor in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of British Columbia, where he is also completing his PhD. The content on Diagnostics in focus is intended for healthcare professionals only. This podcast is intended for audiences in designated countries only. Accessing this content from outside the intended geography may result in information that is not relevant, accurate, or compliant with local regulatory requirements. The podcast channel and episodes are not intended for reposting or redistributing on non-Abbott websites or other external channels without express, written consent.

Information

  • Creator
    Abbott Diagnostics | Core Laboratory
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Abbott Diagnostics | Core Laboratory
  • Show Website
    Diagnostics in focus