Learning through writing: Teaching Critical Thinking Skills through writing assignments
By John William E. Cadungog
MT14 (LEC) – AA

A Laboratory Information System (LIS) combines hardware and software into a system. A system that stores and organizes data from patients, samples, and procedures. One of its functional roles is to ensure proper data management.

A database stores every data entry of the patients and samples. It allows centralized access to data, increasing the efficiency of retrieving information. Patient tracking becomes effortless as LIS updates the patient’s data in the database. Thus, laboratory personnel can review patient demographics and health history for testing.

Furthermore, the interconnected network of LIS allows easy sharing of data. It can link to other systems to allow an exchange of data, especially between medical centers. There is no delay due to transportation when relaying information.

To add, LIS allows personnel to track specimens. LIS stores details from the acquisition of samples to processing and storage. Moreover, the software provides a direct link to diagnostic tools. Transferring data from equipment to the database is faster.

This benefits laboratories to optimize workflow efficiency. Compared to manual information systems, LIS can save more time and space. Laboratory personnel do not need to store and arrange data in filing cabinets. Hence, it improves on existing information systems.

LIS provides a systematic approach to storing entries. As a result, there is a reduction in unnecessary labor. The storing of information became efficient and fast. Buying large cabinets is not necessary, allowing laboratories to save on funds.

About laboratory resources, LIS can also track laboratory materials and resources. It keeps an inventory of available stocks of materials used in laboratory procedures. LIS ensures that supplies do not deplete vital laboratory procedures.

Furthermore, LIS ensures quality control. As for every laboratory, accuracy in data is necessary. Thus, LIS calibrates laboratory instruments for better results. LIS verifies the quality of the samples by regulating storage conditions. When tests produce abnormal results, it will tag them for review.

Afterward, the system will generate reports based on the laboratory procedures. Reports are customizable for a better understanding of the patients. These reports are not limited to tabular formats but can also include charts and trends.

Only authorized personnel can access the laboratory reports through the system or print. Along with this, the system also processes the bill statements of patients. LIS generates codes that contain the charges for laboratory services and insurance claims.

Regulation and compliance are imperative for laboratories to continue their operations. Thus, another function LIS can do is to aid the laboratories in following regulatory requirements. Programming the system to notify regulatory checks helps to ensure timely action.

For security, LIS assists in keeping private results confidential. Only authorized personnel have access to these laboratory reports. Not only does it prevent laboratory reports from theft, but it also secures the patient’s privacy.

In acquiring LIS, deliberation is necessary to integrate it into the system. For instance, consider the type of laboratory that is operating. Select an appropriate LIS to use for proper data management and workflow efficiency.

In conclusion, LIS is necessary for improving the potential of laboratories. With a proper system to organize and sort out data, work efficiency in the laboratory will improve. LIS allows the optimization of workflow conditions. With LIS, keeping data in single location is now possible