However, achieving information consolidation becomes more complicated when consideration is given to the multiple ordering points that are available for laboratory testing (across the continuum of care and over the long term), along with the large numbers of lab tests performed on an annual basis.
A physician, nurse, or public health officer (among others) can order a lab test and the patient can then go to any regional hospital (e.g. perhaps in a different community in which the test was ordered), provincial public health program or other health provider to engage in the test. With many tests being completed in the province on an annual basis (e.g. in 2000-01, the Health Care Corporation of St. John's performed over 6.2 million lab tests), without the ability to link together all of these orders over time, test result history may be incomplete and fragmented. Comprehensive laboratory data, both historical and current, present the health provider with key information in order to make accurate clinical decisions.
Laboratory tests are among the most essential elements in the accurate diagnosis and ongoing care of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Having electronic capability to transmit laboratory data is critical to EHR development.
Some advantages of Electronic Capability in Laboratory Environment include:
- Improves efficiency by reducing the effort to communicate orders and results (reduces the number of steps in the business process); advantage is consistent communication with responses received in a timely manner;
- Leveraging the technology reduces errors by eliminating transcription processes;
- Electronic capability reduces duplicate testing, inappropriate testing and/or repeat testing; and
- Supports consolidation, integration and streamlining of services, testing, and processes to permit fewer staff to perform an increasing number of tests.