Implementation of a Cost-Accounting Model in a Biobank: Practical Implications

Abstract

Given the state of global economy, cost measurement and control have become increasingly relevant over the past years. The scarcity of resources and the need to use these resources more efficiently is making cost information essential in management, even in non-profit public institutions. Biobanks are no exception. However, no empirical experiences on the implementation of cost accounting in biobanks have been published to date. The aim of this paper is to present a step-by-step implementation of a cost-accounting tool for the main production and distribution activities of a real/active biobank, including a comprehensive explanation on how to perform the calculations carried out in this model. Two mathematical models for the analysis of (1) production costs and (2) request costs (order management and sample distribution) have stemmed from the analysis of the results of this implementation, and different theoretical scenarios have been prepared. Global analysis and discussion provides valuable information for internal biobank management and even for strategic decisions at the research and development governmental policies level.

Assessing and measuring financial sustainability model of the Spanish HIV HGM BioBank

“…Though these data do not determine an unequivocal amount of critical resources for a future period, they allow to measure reference margins and develop preventive actions to assure the availability of economic means. Coming ahead of cutbacks, scarcity of resources, equipment acquisition and implementation of new services or prospective samples collections is essential to not endanger the future of the BioBanks [14][15][16][17].…”

“…In this sense, a Levey-Jennings analysis allows to have an initial control over any investment, considering that Spanish HIV HGM BioBank is performing a capital invest of 3.5 times over the recovery, far from desirable 0 rate [20]. Lack of knowledge about BioBank needs and operational procedures among researches is another important hurdle that must be overcome in the development of effective CRPs [14][15][16]. In the past, clients obtained biomaterial at zero cost.…”

“…The first step is to established of a cost analysis model. To introduce an analysis tool that settles the expenses incurred by the BioBanks [14][15][16][17]. This analysis studies retrospective data, draws up service budgets, and forecasts prospective collections according to demand [18,19].…”

What is the resource footprint of a computer science department? Place, people, and Pedagogy

“…A full cost accounting model of nucleic acid-based archival storage of digital information will require cradleto-grave studies of known and novel products, processes, services, and infrastructure across their entire life (cf. the practical, financial, ethical, and other aspects of bioresources (Gonzalez-Sanchez et al, 2014)). In toto, what existing techniques and tools as well as new strategies and methods are needed to identify, determine, and assess the short-, medium-and long-term impacts of a nucleic acid-based knowledge economy on the lithosphere, biosphere (including humans and their societies), atmosphere, and hydrosphere?…”

Biobanking

“…Thus, Zawati et al [6] discuss a new approach to international harmonization of biobanks, a critical issue in the setting of international research initiatives and consortia, but also particularly relevant in specific research fields like rare diseases or childhood disorders. In the subsequent chapter, Gonzalez-Sanchez et al [7] propose a cost account model to evaluate the economic impact of a biobank concerning its costs. Finally, the last two manuscripts are focused on two hot topics in the field: (1) access to diagnostic tissues and (2) pediatric biobanks.…”