Role of Anatomic Pathology Software in Optimizing Lab Workflow

Anatomic pathology is considered the most direct method to diagnose complex health issues. The method is used across specialties to determine the status of a disease. Anatomic pathology, along with clinical testing, builds the foundation of diagnostic medicine. Collecting tissues, preparing microscope slides, examining the samples, capturing the findings, and producing the result is a long process that asks for the utmost precision and efficient coordination.

An anatomic pathology laboratory information system (LIS) helps speed up this process by automating it. Pathology lab reporting software solutions are designed to facilitate improved communication and collaboration between professionals handling the specimen at different stages of clinical testing and diagnosis. The software helps with patient management, data tracking, and quality assurance.

This article considers how anatomic LIS software optimizes laboratory data management and assists pathologists by automating the process. It further elaborates on the interoperability between anatomic pathology LIS and digital pathology systems. 

What is Anatomic Pathology Laboratory Information Software?

Anatomic pathology lab software is a specialized laboratory information system designed to manage the workflow of an anatomic pathology lab.

The LIS is primarily divided into two broad categories: clinical pathology and anatomic pathology laboratory management software. Other variations of laboratory information software are also out there in the market, but these two are widely used across the globe.

The functionality of the two types of lab information management systems often overlaps due to the commonalities between workflows. However, small but significant differences make each of these two systems unique. The clinical pathology system focuses on the collection and processing of biochemical samples, such as bodily fluids, to analyze hormonal or chemical levels, whereas anatomic pathology uses tissue samples from biopsies or whole organs to diagnose a disease condition. The two lab management systems thus vary in the routines applied to specimen collection, tracking, and report generation.

The anatomic pathology lab information system can be a module within a large, all-inclusive laboratory management solution, or a standalone software integrated with other hospital management systems such as electronic health records and electronic medical records (EHR and EMR).  

Anatomic Pathology Software is Built for Pathologists

Anatomic pathology laboratory information systems assist highly specialized Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) physicians with quick results and efficient case management. The software offers an end-to-end solution that includes entering the order into the system, generating labels and barcodes, integrating pathology specimen tracking, scanning documents, generating reports, and quality control. 

The LIS system’s direct digital interface with microscopes and whole slide scanners helps with digitization and image acquisition. You can configure the software to match the demand of your changing operations. Pathologists can leverage laboratory data for an improved workflow and quality results.

How Anatomic Pathology Software is Optimizing Laboratory Data Management

The complex challenges of heavy workload and digitization facing the anatomic lab environment demand the implementation of pathology management software. LIS systems help to manage workflow, track inventory, generate reports, and assist in lab billing. Real-time tracking of collected specimens improves workflow, optimizes time management, and reduces errors caused by manual data entry or medical transcription. 

Seamless Reporting

The anatomic pathology LIS facilitates faster and more effective communication between lab technicians and the physicians they serve. With pathology LIS, labs and doctors can track the progress of a sample from collection to reporting. Rather than needing separate laboratory report software, the LIS delivers reports to the physician seamlessly, without delay. 

Improved Data Access

Retrieval of historical data also becomes quick and easy with the help of a laboratory information management system. This improves patient outcomes by enabling the physician to access the complete patient history, including all anatomic pathology results, for faster diagnosis and closer monitoring.

Flexible for the Needs of Each Pathology Lab

Lab information system software like LigoLab LIS can be used in both general and specialized anatomic pathology centers and is customizable for different sizes of facilities and their specific requirements. Be it a multi-site, multi-facility lab, or a single-site lab with limited capacity, lab pathology software is suitable for all operational sizes and throughputs. 

Compared to general laboratory management software, a software vendor that specializes in pathology lab information systems is better tuned to the specific needs of the anatomic pathology lab, providing improved interfacing with lab equipment and customization of reports. So, whether the focus of the lab is cytopathology or histology, systems that have a robust pathology LIS module excel because they are adaptable to the laboratory’s specific needs. This leads to a smoother, faster workflow, and ultimately an increase in revenue.

Bottom Line on Anatomic Pathology Software

Anatomic pathology solutions enable labs to produce accurate test results within an acceptable time. These LIS systems have made significant progress during the last two decades and modern pathology laboratory software comes with an integrated digital pathology solution. As a result, the entire process can be automated, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of your laboratory.