The Advantages of a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) – Tech Networks

An accurate diagnosis is essential in the medical practice, and so is the relying and storing of information related to the same. The growth of labs over the years has necessitated certain changes to ensure that the needs of clientele have been met and that doctors and other medics have an easier time accessing information from this department to effective treatment plans. Lab information systems are undergoing changes to eliminate human tasks replacing them with technology to improve efficiency, among other aspects. Having a LIMS system in place has an assortment of merits, which has seen software developers make a buck from the medical sector. Some of the advantages of using an information management system in the lab include;

Lab information systems include an option to automate the handling of samples from the minute it enters the lab until the tests are done. After the collection of samples, they are barcoded, and this information is entered into the system. This helps the technician track the specimen in real-time, making accountability manageable. It also makes it easier for the technician to pass information to the other medics regarding the process and how long it may take before getting the test results. Real-time tracking helps eliminate confusion, enhancing the performance of this department within a health facility.

Human error is one of the biggest challenges that laboratories have had to deal with for many years. Laboratory Information management systems help reduce the errors by a significant margin as a decent number of the processes are automated. Data is transferred from one department to the next in the system; hence, human error is reduced. This helps save lives and streamline the process of determining treatment plans for patients. The information also remains in the system and can be used as a future reference when the patient comes back to the facility, making it easier to catch chronic infections.

• Improves service delivery

Growing and managing a lab business becomes more manageable when one has an automated system that permits real-time tracking and eliminates human error. The system makes it effortless for the lab technicians to receive and process samples faster, reducing the time it takes to get their test results back. Working with the best LIMS is essential to help with speedy delivery. Communication is more straightforward with such systems as all the information is on a single secure platform, making sharing and storage of the same painless.

When choosing a laboratory information management system for an establishment, the operator should consider numerous factors to select the best. Cost is one of the key elements that influence the choice of one LIMS over the other. A system that is easy to understand and manage should be the top pick for a seamless experience. The software provider that one chooses should be reputable with a team that can deliver on the project without fail. After-sale services should also be available for a specified period to help when the system has any glitches or the staff needs guidance.