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What To Do When Your Laboratory Information System Is Sunsetting
April 8, 2026
Editor's Note: Several laboratory information systems previously announced for sunsetting have now reached or passed their end-of-life dates, so laboratories must act with more urgency than ever. Labs still operating with legacy pathology LIS systems are now in critical territory; every month of delay increases operational risk. The guidance in this article remains fully relevant, and the time to transition is now.
CoPathPlus Sunset and Oracle’s Cerner Acquisition Signal a Major Shift in the Laboratory Information System Market
Oracle, best known for its cloud applications and cloud platform services, announced in December 2021 that it had entered the health information software technology space with the $28 billion acquisition of Cerner Corporation. Oracle closed the deal to gain valuable access to patient and healthcare data stored in the Cerner Millennium laboratory information system (LIS software) and CoPathPlus, Cerner's anatomic pathology LIS lab solution.
Factor in the planned sunsetting of CoPathPlus, and it's easy to see why laboratory directors and pathologists who rely on that particular LIS software are on edge.
Here's how The Dark Report covered the announcement in its January 31, 2022, issue (please note that only subscribers to The Dark Report will have access to this article link):
Discover More: LIS Market Will Change After Oracle And Clinisys Acquisitions
Although pathology groups have widely used CoPathPlus since the launch of the first version of the laboratory information system software in 1982, that scenario is about to change. The CoPathPlus LIS software isn't cloud-compatible, and its planned sunset is threatening the immediate future of hundreds of AP labs.
Get Insight: Comparing the LigoLab Informatics Platform with Legacy Laboratory Information System Software
A Wave of Sunsetting LIS Systems
CoPathPlus isn’t the only one. Several widely used laboratory information system solutions are nearing their end-of-life or have already been retired. They include:
- NovoPath 9.0
- IntelliPath
- XiFin iNet
- CliniSys ApolloLIMs
- LABdivus (by Cerebrum)
Get Insight: Is Your Laboratory Information System and Lab Vendor Holding Your Laboratory Hostage?
Unlock Lab Potential with This Opportunity
LigoLab CEO Suren Avunjian, a former chief technology officer, understands the anxiety lab leaders are feeling.
"For sunsetting LIS system users, it's a scary thing to think about. Not having support and being left on your own," he said.
But Avunjian also sees a silver lining. Forced transitions, while uncomfortable, often push labs toward the digital modernization they've needed for years.
"This is a wake-up call for many labs, but it's also an opportunity because a modern medical LIS can maximize automation and unlock a lab's potential," he said.
Discover More: Automation in Pathology Labs Using Advanced LIS System Software
The Time to Act is Now
Regarding LIS laboratory information system implementations, the time to act is now to smoothly transition to new LIS software solutions.
Here's a typical timeline showing how much time and effort a lab will need to comfortably make the right choice and partner with the best LIS company that aligns with their technology and goals.
- Six months of laboratory information system research (LIS software demos, testimonials, referrals, etc.).
- Three months (or more) to narrow the decision to one LIS company and negotiate and finalize a licensing agreement.
- Six to eight months to implement the LIS lab solution and train the staff.
Editor’s Note: For large anatomic pathology practices, adjust the timeline by adding 30-40% more time to the above projections.
Discover More: Keys to Keeping Your LIS System Implementation on Track
The End of an Era
The sunset of Cerner's LIS system and anatomical pathology software marks the end of one era and the start of another. That's because hundreds of labs will soon be opening their doors to other leading laboratory information system companies with advanced features and functionality that offer the anatomic pathology LIS system reliability needed to replace CoPathPlus.
"At LigoLab, we are excited to offer a forward-thinking and enterprise LIS system software solution that addresses the immediate needs of transitioning pathology groups and sets a new standard for excellence in laboratory information system technology," said Avunjian.
For many, this lab information system sunsetting is a disturbing development, so Avunjian sees it as his job to calm nerves and reassure lab leaders that an even more advanced lab pathology software alternative is available to them.
"LigoLab has all the laboratory workflow management feature sets a modern lab needs, plus an order of magnitude beyond that," he said.
LigoLab's Track Record With CoPath LIS System Migrations
Also of note: The CoPath product is the laboratory information system that LigoLab has most often replaced since launching its own LIS software for pathology in 2006.
"We fully understand the advantages and constraints that come with CoPathPlus, and we've helped many medium-to-large pathology groups successfully migrate from that medical LIS solution to the LigoLab Informatics Platform," he said.
Discover More: What You Need to Know Before Contracting with a Laboratory Information System Company
The Pathologists’ Experience
A More Modern, Intuitive Way to Work
What about the pathologists who are used to working with CoPathPlus? What will they experience with the LigoLab platform?
“First off, their ease of use is going to be much better, and they're going to have much more functionality at their fingertips because LigoLab is a much more modern laboratory information system,” said Avunjian, who used LigoLab’s speech-to-text feature (voice dictation software) as an example of how pathologists will be able to control their entire experience with voice if they so choose.
“Our state-of-the-art lab information system anticipates the future of healthcare, and we’re confident that pathologists will enjoy an intuitive user experience and all the features and versatility the informatics platform provides,” he said. “They’ll also appreciate a newfound ability to sign out cases much faster, with far fewer clicks than before, thanks to all the available laboratory information system functions.”
Get Insight: How Advanced LIS Software Helps Pathologists Sign Out Cases Faster
How LigoLab Stands Apart From Other Laboratory Information System Vendors
A decommissioned laboratory information system can be a scary prospect. Still, if lab leadership steps back, it can also be seen as a welcome opportunity to revitalize the lab's environment and set it on a path toward modernization and profitability.
As lab leadership begins to research and engage with other LIS software vendors, here are three important areas to concentrate on and evaluate:
Innovative Features
Does the LIS system integrate with the latest technological advancements to streamline clinical and pathology lab management, improve diagnostic accuracy, and enhance patient outcomes? Does it support AI-driven analytics, digital pathology solutions, and cloud-based accessibility?
Customized Solutions
Recognizing that every pathology group has unique needs, does the LIS system/pathology management software offer customizable solutions tailored to specific requirements? Does the lab information system align with operational lab workflow and enhance efficiency across all departments?
Customer Service and Support
Does the LIS company provide exceptional customer support? From initial setup onward, does the medical LIS support team provide guidance, promptly answer questions, and resolve any issues that may arise?
As noted earlier, Avunjian understands the challenges labs operating with CoPathPlus now face and recognizes the need to make prompt decisions.
"Our team is ready to assist these labs every step of the way, and if they choose the LigoLab platform as their new anatomic pathology LIS system, we'll welcome them to the family of growing laboratory partners by ensuring their transition is a smooth and successful one," he said.
For lab leaders who have yet to familiarize themselves with LigoLab and its modern anatomic pathology software, here's a brief introduction covering data migration, interface capabilities, and other key details.
LigoLab’s Approach to Data Migration
With a sunsetting medical laboratory information system and an imminent move to a new LIS lab solution, data migration quickly becomes a top priority across the lab's hierarchy. Fortunately, this is an area where LigoLab excels.
"Transitioning to a new laboratory information system can be daunting, especially when transferring sensitive patient data and reports. Our experienced engineers specialize in secure data migration, ensuring historical data is transferred accurately and efficiently to our LIS system with minimal disruption to a lab's operations," said Avunjian.
A Three-Step Migration Process
For LigoLab, data migration follows a three-step process that ensures the team imports all generated patient reports and physician records from the legacy LIS system into the LigoLab platform.
Step 1: The first data import takes place as the LIS system implementation commences. It typically includes at least 10 years of data generated by the previous LIS model. Once finished, the team shares a report with the lab that identifies cleanup areas (such as eliminating duplicate or corrupt records).
Step 2: A second data import occurs when the new LIS system goes live, capturing and transferring all information accumulated since the first import.
Step 3: A third and final data import takes place three to four months after going live to identify and transfer any remaining straggler cases to the new LIS medical solution. After this third import, the lab can fully switch off its legacy LIS system, as the team has successfully transferred all relevant data to the LigoLab platform.
"The lab won't have to keep the legacy LIS software up and running long after going live with LigoLab," said Avunjian. "When the process finishes, the legacy lab LIS data will exist in our platform, and the customer service team and pathologists will access these records just like any other report generated out of LigoLab."
Avunjian also proudly noted that over multiple decades of working with independent clinical labs and pathology groups, LigoLab has never experienced an implementation failure or a rollback to a legacy laboratory information system following a failed LIS launch.
LigoLab's Interface Engine Compatibility
LigoLab's state-of-the-art LIS system also easily integrates with existing interface engines, including Mirth, Corepoint, Iguana, OpenLink, OpenEngine Lifepoint, ELKAY, Cloverleaf, and many more.
This capability is crucial for laboratories looking to migrate to a more modern, feature-rich pathology information system solution without disrupting the current interoperability between their systems and the broader healthcare ecosystem. By leveraging LigoLab's compatibility with these widely used interface engines, laboratories can:
- Maintain connections with the Electronic Health Record (EHR) and hospital systems, ensuring patient data flows seamlessly across different healthcare platforms without requiring reconfiguration.
- Utilize current interfaces to minimize the learning curve and the LIS system implementation timeline. Laboratories can leverage their existing setup to communicate with LigoLab's platform, reducing the time and resources required for the transition.
Building and Rebuilding Interfaces
LigoLab understands that each laboratory's needs are unique, and sometimes existing interfaces may need to be optimized or completely redesigned to meet the specific requirements of the new pathology information system environment. In response to this, LigoLab offers two pivotal services:
Rebuilding Existing Interfaces: For laboratories with existing interfaces that require updates or modifications, LigoLab's team of experienced engineers can rebuild these connections to ensure optimal performance, stability, and compatibility with the new LIS system.
Developing New Interfaces: When labs need new functionality or connections, LigoLab designs and implements them. This service enables laboratories to expand their capabilities and integrate new laboratory software systems into their lab workflow, enhancing efficiency and their ability to serve clients.
Expanding Connectivity with LigoLab's Cloud Network
In an era where cloud-based LIS software solutions are becoming increasingly crucial for efficient healthcare data management, LigoLab further enhances its service offerings through a comprehensive cloud network of pre-integrated interfaces.
This network connects laboratories to an expansive array of cloud-based EHR systems, including Athenahealth, Practice Fusion, DrChrono, and ModMed. By tapping into this extensive network, laboratories instantly broaden their connectivity horizons, facilitating seamless data exchange across a diverse healthcare ecosystem.
This integration capability represents significant time and cost savings for laboratories. Once connected to LigoLab's cloud network, laboratories can swiftly bring additional clients online, typically within a week, without incurring connection fees. This approach accelerates the onboarding process for new clients and eliminates the financial burden often associated with establishing new interfaces. Consequently, laboratories can focus on their core mission of delivering top-quality diagnostic services while LigoLab handles the complexities of data connectivity and integration.
Get Insight: The Benefits of a Modern Pathology Lab Management System
Empowering Laboratories with DIY Interface Building
In addition to providing interface development and optimization services, LigoLab empowers laboratories to take control of their interface architecture through its proprietary interface engine. This approach serves laboratories that prefer a hands-on approach to their LIS system integration:
LigoLab's Interface Engine: Laboratories can use it to create, modify, and manage their interfaces in-house. This advanced engine provides a flexible, user-friendly environment for technical teams to develop bespoke LIS software solutions that meet their specific requirements.
Enhanced Autonomy and Flexibility: By enabling laboratories to build and manage their interfaces, LigoLab fosters a culture of innovation and self-sufficiency. Laboratories can quickly adapt to changes in their operational needs or technological advancements without relying on external lab vendors for every modification or new integration.
As the industry evolves, LigoLab's comprehensive interface-integration policy and rapid development position it as a leader in supporting laboratories through all technological transitions.
Discover More: LigoLab Delivers the LIS System Interoperability Needed to Transform Medical Laboratories into Thriving Businesses
Security and Compliance
HIPAA-Compliant by Design
In the digital age, the security of patient data and compliance with regulatory standards are paramount for any laboratory information system software. LigoLab recognizes this critical need and has built its informatics platform with robust security measures and compliance protocols to protect sensitive patient and laboratory information. The LIS laboratory information system adheres to HIPAA regulations, ensuring all data is encrypted both in transit and at rest, and it provides a framework for data privacy and security that meets the highest standards.
Get Insight: LigoLab’s Enhanced Cybersecurity Solutions Give Customers Added Protection and Peace of Mind
Training and Support
Getting Your Team Up to Speed
Understanding the importance of a smooth transition and effective use of its enterprise pathology lab software platform, LigoLab offers comprehensive training and ongoing support tailored to each laboratory's specific needs.
The training programs equip LIS lab staff with the knowledge and skills needed to maximize the benefits of LigoLab's feature sets. From initial setup to advanced functionalities, LigoLab is an LIS company that ensures a seamless learning experience through webinars, interactive sessions, and on-demand resources.
Ongoing Support After Go-Live
Post-implementation, a dedicated support team can address any queries or issues, ensuring a lab's operations run smoothly and efficiently. LigoLab demonstrates its commitment to a lab's success through responsive, unlimited, and proactive customer support.
On-Demand Webinar: Has Our Laboratory Outgrown Its Laboratory Information System?
LIS System Pricing That Just Makes Sense
No Large Upfront Investment Required
CoPathPlus was a good laboratory information system in its day, but it was expensive, requiring a six- to seven-figure upfront capital investment to license the LIS software. There's also a good chance that contemporary LIS system alternatives will again require this sort of upfront investment for a partnership, but that's not the case with LigoLab, which not only never requires a large upfront fee but also offers four convenient pricing tiers and a subsidized implementation and training fee.
The pricing tiers deliver maximum value to labs of all sizes and levels of complexity and serve as catalysts for modernization and faster scalability.
A Partnership Built on Shared Success
"Our lab partners appreciate our LIS model for pricing and shared-success philosophy," said Avunjian. "We bet on the customer and ourselves as laboratory information system vendors. We subsidize much of the implementation cost. We align with laboratories for a long-term partnership based on success because if they're not profitable, we both lose."
Get Insight: LigoLab Informatics Platform - Uniquely Designed to Deliver Maximum Value
Final Thoughts
The LigoLab Informatics Platform is an all-in-one lab information system and laboratory revenue cycle management (lab billing) software solution. It sets a new standard in the laboratory information system arena, delivering unmatched flexibility, scalability, and support, and stands out as the most comprehensive medical LIS software solution commercially available today, designed to cater not just to the basic needs of laboratories but also to their evolving demands as they expand and adapt to the changing healthcare landscape.
White Paper: Maximizing Your Lab’s Profitability - The Case for In-House Lab Billing
Unlike simpler laboratory information systems that labs might quickly outgrow, LigoLab offers longevity. It means clinical laboratories and pathology groups can rely on a single, highly scalable laboratory information system, eliminating the need for frequent, disruptive LIS software changes.
The LigoLab approach to pricing further differentiates this LIS company from the competition, offering a clear, straightforward pricing model that eschews traditional, substantial upfront costs.
For more information about LigoLab’s comprehensive laboratory information system software solutions and how they help pathology groups transition from CoPathPlus and other sunsetting systems, please contact a LIS System Product Specialist today.
Don’t Wait: Speak with LigoLab Today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Sunsetting LIS Systems
My LIS system is sunsetting. How much time do I realistically have to find a replacement?
Less than most labs think. A full transition from research to go-live typically takes 15 to 17 months for standard-sized labs and longer for large pathology practices. If your system sunsets soon, the search should begin immediately.
Will my historical patient data transfer to the new LIS system?
Most likely, yes. For example, LigoLab uses a three-step migration process that captures historical records, transfers data accumulated during the transition period, and performs a final cleanup import after go-live. You can fully shut down the legacy lab information system once you complete all three steps.
Do we have to rebuild all our existing interfaces when we switch?
Not necessarily. LigoLab is compatible with most widely used interface engines, which means many existing connections can be maintained or updated rather than rebuilt from scratch. Where new interfaces are needed, LigoLab's engineering team handles development.
What does switching LIS systems cost, and is there a large upfront fee?
LigoLab doesn't require a large upfront capital investment. It subsidizes implementation and training costs and structures pricing across four tiers based on lab size and complexity, making the transition financially manageable for a wider range of labs.
How does the experience change for pathologists specifically?
Pathologists moving from CoPathPlus typically notice faster case sign-out, fewer clicks, more functionality, and a more intuitive interface. LigoLab also includes speech-to-text capabilities, enabling pathologists to navigate the platform entirely by voice.
What if we outgrow the new laboratory information system down the road?
LigoLab designed its tiered LIS model with growth in mind. Labs can move between tiers as their needs evolve, from Essential through to Enterprise, without switching LIS software vendors or starting over.
Has LigoLab successfully migrated CoPath labs before?
Yes. CoPathPlus is the LIS system LigoLab has replaced most frequently since launching in 2006. The company has never experienced an unsuccessful implementation or a rollback to a legacy LIS system.
