Irina Concepcion G. Rivera
MT 14 – DD

The laboratory information system is a vital component of modern healthcare facilities and research laboratories. The LIS manages all laboratory data, ranging from methods for collecting samples, instruments, inventories, tests, and quality control. Some LIS systems include data analytics for data analysis, including statistical or graphical analysis and visualization.

The main goal of the LIS is to provide labs with a single system or manage their daily operations with centralized controls and automated procedures to improve workflow efficiency and decrease errors.

Major components of the LIS include sample tracking and patient tracking. Sample tracking is the method of keeping track of and documenting sample movement and status inside a lab or other controlled environment. The integrity, traceability, and correctness of samples must be maintained throughout their entire life, from collection to reception to analysis to storage.

Elements of sample tracking include Sample Identification, where each sample should have a scanning identifier to make sure it can be distinguished from other samples in the lab. Another element is Location Monitor, which tracks the sample’s physical whereabouts at all times, whether it’s being stored, going through analysis, or being moved throughout the lab. Workflow Monitors also organize the flow of the sample through different laboratory procedures, from initial reception or collection to analysis, quality control, and storage.

More common elements include Status Updates, which record whether the test has been accepted, tested, discarded, or stored, as well as the status or condition of the sample at various processing steps. Lastly, Traceability is responsible for thorough records of each sample’s past, enabling quick information retrieval and confirmation of handling and processing.

Patient Tracking is the procedure for methodically tracking and supervising patient-related data and activities in a healthcare laboratory or clinical setting. Data about specific patients and the tests they have had is gathered, stored, and retrieved as part of patient tracking.

Elements of patient tracking include Identification, as patients are given a unique identity, usually based on their name, date of birth, or a medical record number. With the use of this identity, the patient can be connected to the relevant laboratory samples and test results. Sample Collection also aids in recording the time and location of sample collection from the patient, ensuring accurate sample handling and transportation. Sample Association
accurately links to each sample taken from them. This is done to avoid any errors when handling samples and performing tests.

More vital elements include Test Processing, which tracks each sample’s progression through the laboratory workflow, from sample receipt to analysis, quality control, and result reporting. Lastly, Data Security– patient information must be protected by strict data security and privacy laws.

Although it has some similarities to an LIS, a laboratory information management system (LIMS), which is frequently used in research and industrial laboratories, is mainly concerned with sample management and data organization. These comprise of Sample Registration– each sample is given a unique identification, which is used to trace it throughout its cycle. Sample Storage oversees the physical storage of samples, LIMS makes sure they are kept in surroundings that are suitable for storage, including ones that are temperature-controlled. Sample Testing plans testing, logs instrument data, and electronically records outcomes.

More elements include Integration, which integrates with other systems, including resource planning systems at the enterprise level, lab equipment, and tools for data analysis. Lastly, Data Retrieval and Analysis allow researchers to export data for use in other projects, create reports, and obtain data for analysis through LIMS.

While LIMS is specifically designed for sample management and research data integration, supporting researchers in organizing and analyzing big datasets, LIS primarily focuses on clinical operations and result reporting. In conclusion, a laboratory information system (LIS) and laboratory information management system (LIMS) are useful instruments in modern healthcare that can assist and improve the performance of medical professionals.

References:
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LabWare. (2020). How Does a LIMS Work? Labware.com.
https://www.labware.com/blog/how-does-a-lims-work
Samuel, A. (2022, October 24). Basic Parts of Laboratory Information System (LIMS). School
Drillers. https://www.schooldrillers.com/parts-of-laboratory-information-system/
Staff, E. (2022, September 16). Laboratory Information Systems: What Are They and How
Do They Work? Medicalopedia; Medicalopedia.
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