Laboratory Information Systems



Laboratory information systems (LIS) have evolved over the past 30 years from simple systems designed to generate accurate reports to complete systems that can link laboratory data “end to end” across the TTP, including clinician-related pre- and postanalytic activities (e.g., test selection, interpretive consultation). Health information technology (HIT) and Web-based applications have enabled dramatic improvements in the ways in which laboratories communicate, provide services, educate their workforce and clients, market themselves to clients, and track clinical data and information. Health care organizations have played a key role in advancing such communication by linking the LIS with hospital information systems, pharmacy database systems, etc.
As a strategic tool, the LIS should enhance quality and efficiency of health care professionals, allowing them to deliver high quality, cost-effective service. In fact, several studies of urban and rural facilities have reported a direct association between the implementation of an LIS and improved financial performance.
This chapter provides a brief overview of the basic structure of LISs in integrated delivery systems (IDS) and POLs. Particular attention was given to data management capabilities and clinical practice applications of interest to public and private sector stakeholders as they pursue comprehensive health information systems integration. In addition, the chapter discusses important informatics issues that continue to inhibit data exchange between applications both internal and external to clinical laboratories.

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