Elizah Jane T. Antinero BSMT I-AA

The Laboratory Information System (LIS)

Technology has become integral to human life in today’s modern world. People use technology, from communicating to accessing information, because it makes life convenient. Technology in the healthcare field makes the daily flow of work much faster and better.

In laboratories, various information and operations are circulating each day. Indeed, they demand organization and proper management. To solve the situation, laboratories present the Laboratory Information System (LIS).

For a glimpse of its history, this system’s creation dates back to 1960, which changed the industry. In the 1980s, the software developers decided to include analytical capabilities. Now, laboratory information systems have become vital to accessible healthcare (Systems, 2022).

Laboratories use laboratory information systems (LIS) to store and manage data and information. It helps the laboratory and its clients, from the arrival of service requests to the results. This software has made information well-organized and accessible and laboratory operations outstanding.

There are three major components of LIS. According to Short (2021), the protocol execution, sample tracking, and storage organization. These are the standard of the LIS that contains the proper procedures to follow.

Protocol Execution. The laboratory information system utilizes the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). It contains all the standard procedures necessary for laboratory technicians to follow. This component ensures that every step taken in conducting specimen tests is correct.

Sample Tracking. The laboratory information system tracks the samples’ processes. It records all the sample’s data upon admission and as its flow progresses. Not only that, but it also tracks the one who is in contact with the sample and their specific location.

Storage Organization. The laboratory information system tracks the flow of the samples inside the lab. It emphasizes a storage hierarchy that helps locate the sample. It traces its storage, including the drawer box, drawer rack, shelf, and room number.

The laboratory information systems work in many ways. It includes managing patient information and tracking laboratory test results. Also, it helps in generating reports for healthcare providers.

Moreover, LIS helps to check laboratory supplies and equipment inventory levels. Not only that, but schedule appointments and track billing information as well. Generally, LIS improves laboratory workflows and enhances patient care.

In particular, LIS works on sample management systems occurring in laboratories. This system activates when a sample arrives in a laboratory and registers in a LIMS. Through LIMS, tracking and recording the samples would be easier, especially with labels.

Further, LIS works in workflow management systems, which help workflows and assign work. It is possible by putting proper codes and setting the appropriate instruments. Using LIMS in workflow management promotes efficiency and quality (Sanjana, 2018).

Technology is a significant part of different industries. As technology grows, laboratory information systems (LIS) are further improving, supporting laboratories worldwide. With data increasing daily, LIS improves accuracy and data management and shortens TAT.

Becoming aware of the functionalities and importance of LIS is significant for people. It is to show that LIS is not only a form of technology but a system that improves work and saves lives.

SOURCES

Core Components of Laboratory Information Management System. (2021, August 9). VB Monster. https://vbmonster.com/core-components-of-laboratory-information-management-system/

Systems, P. (2022, February 28). What is a Laboratory Information System? Psychē Systems Corporation. https://psychesystems.com/blog/what-is-a-laboratory-information-system/

What is a laboratory information management system? Sanjana (2018, August 8). https://mocdoc.in/blog/what-is-laboratory-information-management-system