SAN DIEGO – October 30, 2026 -- QuidelOrtho Corporation (Nasdaq: QDEL) released episode 62 of its Science Bytes podcast, in which a senior executive argues that AI cannot deliver reliable insights in clinical laboratories until underlying lab data is standardized, reliable and traceable.

The episode features Rodney Guzman, Vice President of Software Engineering for Global Informatics Platforms at QuidelOrtho, and is hosted by Josh Casey. Guzman outlines how structured informatics can turn results from discrete laboratory systems into clinical knowledge.

Labs face rising test volumes, specialist shortages and siloed data

Laboratories are dealing with growing complexity and testing demand, according to the discussion. Lab data has historically sat in silos, and labs need ways to integrate it to speed clinical decision-making. Workforce shortages compound the problem, particularly specialists who manage complex testing scenarios.

AI could cut redundant testing and workflow bottlenecks

The episode says AI has the potential to optimize test utilization, eliminate redundant testing and reduce bottlenecks. That depends on informatics first consolidating, organizing and presenting data sets consistently.

Transfusion medicine is a priority use case for integrated data

Integrated data is particularly beneficial for transfusion medicine, where a complex array of data influences clinical decisions, the episode notes.

Guzman also stresses that AI augments clinical experts. Lab professionals remain responsible for interpreting results and making final decisions.