White Papers

Abstract: What to Do When Your Laboratory Information System Is Sunsetting

As legacy laboratory information systems approach the end of their support lifecycles, clinical laboratories and pathology practices face an important technology decision: how to transition to a modern LIS platform without disrupting operations, compromising historical data, or jeopardizing patient care.

This white paper examines the challenges and opportunities associated with sunsetting LIS software, particularly Cerner CoPathPlus, while outlining a practical strategy for selecting and implementing a future-ready laboratory information system.

Although the discontinuation of familiar pathology software can create uncertainty, it also presents an opportunity for laboratories to modernize outdated workflows, embrace intelligent automation, improve interoperability, and establish a more scalable technology infrastructure.

The white paper emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, recommending that laboratories allocate sufficient time for LIS vendor research, contract negotiations, implementation, and staff training. It also highlights critical evaluation criteria, including advanced functionality, configurable workflows, customer support, data migration capabilities, and integration flexibility.

A central focus is LigoLab's experience helping pathology practices transition from CoPathPlus and other legacy systems to its unified laboratory information system and lab revenue cycle management (RCM) platform.

The paper details LigoLab's structured three-stage data migration process, designed to preserve historical patient records and diagnostic reports while minimizing operational disruption. It also explores the platform's extensive interface compatibility, cloud-based connectivity, customizable integration capabilities, and tools that empower laboratories to manage interfaces independently.

Additional advantages include intuitive pathology workflows, voice-enabled functionality, robust security measures, comprehensive training, ongoing technical support, and flexible pricing designed to reduce the financial barriers traditionally associated with LIS replacement.

Ultimately, this white paper demonstrates that LIS sunsetting should be viewed not simply as a forced software replacement, but as an opportunity for meaningful digital transformation. By selecting an experienced technology partner and investing in a highly configurable, scalable LIS and RCM platform, laboratories can improve efficiency, strengthen financial performance, and position themselves for sustainable growth.

Key Takeaways

1. LIS sunsetting creates both operational risks and modernization opportunities. 

2. Early planning is essential for a successful LIS transition. 

3. A modern LIS should deliver significantly more than legacy functionality. 

4. LigoLab brings extensive experience replacing CoPathPlus. 

5. A structured three-stage data migration process protects historical records. 

6. Interface compatibility is critical to maintaining laboratory operations. 

7. Cloud-based integrations accelerate laboratory growth. 

8. Self-service interface development increases laboratory independence. 

9. Modern pathology workflows improve the user experience. 

10. Security, training, and ongoing support are essential selection criteria. 

11. Flexible LIS pricing reduces barriers to modernization.

12. A unified LIS and RCM platform creates long-term strategic value.