January 2026 | ENDO Lab & Medical Systems
Clinical Lab Newsletter
A concise briefing for independent lab leaders navigating respiratory season shifts, PAMA reporting, CLIA administration, industry events, and remnant sample research opportunities.
1
Respiratory season easing — shift to post-peak optimization
What’s happening: CDC’s 2025–2026 outlook projected a peak similar to last year. As of late January 2026, combined flu, RSV, and COVID hospitalizations are at low levels nationally, with flu declining for weeks.
Why it matters: Post-peak means lower but persistent demand. Labs can now focus on inventory normalization, reflex optimization, and capacity recovery while preparing for any late surges.
Lab leader move:
- Review reagent stocking and instrument maintenance windows.
- Sync test ordering with current clinician patterns and local data.
- Refine multiplex/reflex algorithms for clinical precision and efficiency.
2
PAMA reporting window opens Feb. 1 — 2019 data still in play
What’s happening: CMS’ CLFS data reporting period runs Feb. 1–Apr. 30, 2026, based on private-payer rates from Jan. 1–Jun. 30, 2019. No congressional fix materialized, so outdated data drives the next rate cycle.
Why it matters: Industry warnings persist. Relying on 2019 commercial rates risks volatile Medicare CLFS adjustments and ongoing instability.
Lab leader move:
- Determine whether you are an “applicable laboratory” and assign a cross-functional owner.
- Audit payer-rate data sources and claims mapping before the end of February.
- For health systems, centralize reporting to avoid fragmented submissions and audit risks.
3
CLIA fully paperless March 1 — no more checks or paper certificates
What’s happening: After March 1, 2026, CMS ends paper fee coupons and CLIA certificates. Labs must use online payments and switch to email notifications.
Why it matters: Missing the transition risks renewal lapses and operational disruptions. It may look administrative on paper, but it can become existential in practice.
Lab leader move:
- Update CLIA account contacts and remove outdated email recipients.
- Verify who receives CMS notifications and test access.
- Revise SOPs so finance pays online and checks are no longer mailed.
February 2026 — Industry Events to Watch
Key opportunities for networking, technology insights, and peer benchmarking:
- SLAS2026 International Conference & Exhibition — Feb. 7–11, Boston, MA
- Clinical Laboratory Educators Conference (CLEC) — Feb. 5–7, Bellevue, WA
- ACLA Annual Meeting — Feb. 25, Washington, D.C.
ENDO “Worth a 10-minute call?”
Facing 2026 pressures and seeking revenue streams that preserve operational focus? ENDO’s de-identified remnant programs are designed to be low-friction. We manage shipping, overnight logistics, and compliance rigor so your team stays focused on patient care.
Attending ADLM in July?
Want to meet more lab pros and network on us?
ADLM, formerly AACC, takes place July 26–30 in Anaheim, CA. ENDO will host a nearby networking happy hour, with details to be released next month. Our networking events are usually a big hit, giving lab professionals a simple way to meet peers, share ideas, and learn what may be working for others around the country.
Good food, good cocktails, good people, and good ideas can lead to business improvement opportunities.
Please contact us if you plan to attend and we will reserve a spot for you.
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
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ENDO Lab and Medical delivers innovative products and services that help customers improve patient outcomes, accelerate turnaround times, increase utilization of laboratory resources, and improve profitability. Our industry expertise and personalized service help customers make informed decisions to grow revenue and protect their bottom line.
