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Optimizing Lab Workflow with LIS Systems and Lab LIMS
July 15, 2024
Testing labs process a heavy workload of samples daily. They rely on established, smooth-running laboratory workflow management and diagnostic lab software tools to manage and process samples and data.
Modern laboratories optimize their lab workflow and manage data with the help of laboratory information system software (LIS meaning in medical) and laboratory information management system software (lab LIMS).
Learn More:A Conversation With LIS System Administrator Kristie Becerra
What is a Lab Information Management System Software?
A comprehensive LIS system or lab LIMS can automate all aspects of a laboratory’s operation management, from sample processing and lab instrument integration to data management and reporting.
A LIS system or lab LIMS simplifies the storage and retrieval of test data associated with processed samples, allowing stakeholders to access reports on test results, audit trails, sample quality analysis, and even generated invoices.
The best lab information management system software (LIMS full form) improves a lab’s turnaround time by automating lab workflow for sample tracking, processing, and recording test results. The best LIS and lab LIMS leverage advances in data storage approaches (such as cloud storage) and organizational tools to securely store and link large volumes of data to the proper source.
For example, each specimen in a modern LIS system or lab LIMS receives a lab track system unique ID linked to both the test result and the sample. This sample tracking automation streamlines processes and minimizes tracking and data recording errors.
Advanced LIS system and LIMS lab management software solutions can do more than simply track or process samples – they can also address compliance with regulatory requirements such as Good Lab Practice (GLP) to indicate, ahead of auditing, whether a lab is conforming to the best quality assurance (QA) standards.
A validated lab information system/laboratory information management system is thus the backbone of testing labs that handle large volumes of samples and data.
The Use of Medical Laboratory Information System Software in Pathology Labs?
A medical laboratory information system software package digitizes a lab’s workflow management. This type of pathology software (LIS medical software) is designed to automate several clinical lab or pathology practice processes, from sample collection to processing, reporting, and patient invoicing and billing.
Sample Tracking
A medical lab’s sample tracking data typically include:
- Date of sample collection
- Test location
- Sample type and tests required
- Patient data
- Additional data customized to the lab’s workflow
The above sample tracking data is recorded at the time of collection and is regularly updated as the sample is processed. When a sample is transferred from one department to another, the medical laboratory information system database monitors it and securely records its movement while avoiding losses and delays.
Interfacing with an Interface Engine
A laboratory information system (LIS software) interfaces with lab instruments, middleware, and third-party lab services (like a lab billing system) via hardware and software integrations designed to facilitate seamless data exchange. The best LIS systems excel at this practice because they have built-in interface engines to manage the data flow and transmit it accurately and reliably.
In addition to the HL7 format, an interface engine should also be able to transfer data through FHIR, XML, X12, CSV, PDF, Flat File, ASTM, and Restful API.
Integrated Laboratory Revenue Cycle Management Module
While legacy LIS systems have traditionally dealt with sample reporting only, the laboratory revenue cycle management (lab RCM) process no longer needs to be handled separately.
Modern laboratory information system functions now include laboratory billing with LIS system software like the LigoLab Informatics Platform saving labs time, resources, and money by automating much of the in-house lab billing process.
Thanks to its rule-based platform and full integration between the LIS system and lab RCM modules, LigoLab clients report 25-35 percent gains in net collections soon after achieving this level of interoperability.
Learn More: Leveraging LIS System & Lab RCM Integration to Improve the Laboratory Billing Process
How LIS System and Lab LIMS Software Help Optimize Lab Workflow
Clinical labs and pathology groups handle diverse lab workflow, from sample tracking management to regulatory standard compliance, and everything in between. Although the primary lab workflow centers around sample tracking and data management, a comprehensive LIS system/lab LIMS solution can integrate future evolutions of a lab’s requirements, like digital pathology (in many ways the future of anatomic pathology).
A clinical laboratory workflow management software package like the LigoLab Platform integrates the various steps involved in sample management. It digitizes them into a repeatable process used for clinical workflow optimization.
Placement of Test Order
The clinic or doctor orders a test, and this requisition includes patient and sample data.
Sample Registration
Once the lab has collected the patient’s sample, the LIS system/lab LIMS generates a barcode to record sample tracking data.
Sample Processing
The LIS system/lab LIMS tracks the sample through its lifecycle and monitors the equipment used to process it. An online computer lab management system like the LigoLab Platform tracks and maintains a record of the time taken to run a test, the personnel handling the sample, and the laboratory instruments used for sample processing. This data is used to generate a report auditing the performance of the lab workflow, the equipment, and LIS staffing personnel.
Sample Report
In compliance with the lab’s data entry standards, the LIS system/lab LIMS generates a report and marks it for distribution based on client preferences.
Sample Storage
Samples are assigned to storage locations, such as shelves in a freezer, based on their barcoding. Laboratory LIS staffing personnel may retrieve samples for more processing based on the stored location information.
Why Choosing the Best Laboratory Information System Software is Key for Efficient Data Management
Once the practical part of the work is complete, the lab’s clinical lab information system/lab LIMS needs to have an effective way of handling the resulting data.
A lab information system/LIMS lab management software database converts raw data files from each sample into standardized entries that facilitate data exchange and integration. For instance, modern pathology LIS systems such as the LigoLab Platform can directly interface with the Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems used in hospitals because they include an interface engine supported by an experienced and talented interface department.
Learn More: The Role of Anatomic Pathology Software in Optimizing Laboratory Workflow Management
When looking for a LIS laboratory information system/LIMs lab management software, ensure you choose a future-ready platform like the LigoLab example presented here, one that seamlessly integrates multiple aspects of sample and data management and one that creates end-to-end efficiencies through rules, automation, and interoperability that empowers laboratories to run a better business and serve patients better.
