The need for home collection of samples has become increasingly important, providing convenience for patients who are unable to visit a medical facility. However, several challenges are faced in this process. Coordinating the arrival of phlebotomists and patients can be a logistical hurdle. Accurate documentation, including recording collection time, managing payments, and capturing prescriptions, is crucial but can be prone to errors. Ensuring the safe and timely movement of samples from patients' homes to the laboratory while maintaining sample integrity adds complexity. Overcoming these challenges is essential to providing efficient and reliable home sample collection services.

The MocDoc’s Phlebo mobile/web application is designed to streamline the process of home collection for test samples, ensuring efficient tracking and management. This application is utilized by the phlebotomist responsible for collecting test samples from patients' homes and facilitating their movement to the laboratories for testing. The Phlebo application plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and traceability of the samples throughout the entire process of home collection and subsequent testing, providing a reliable solution for healthcare professionals, and ensuring accurate diagnostic outcomes. This application is used in the pre-analytical phase of the sample lifecycle.

Home Collection Workflow

Upon receiving an order for home collection, the laboratory ensures that a skilled phlebotomist is assigned to carry out the sample collection. To ensure smooth coordination, the phlebotomist notifies the patient in advance regarding their arrival time for the collection process.

Using a mobile app, the phlebotomist records the precise time of collection. Following the successful collection, the phlebotomist proceeds to collect the payment from the patient. To keep the records up-to-date, the phlebotomist updates the payment status within the mobile app. Additionally, an image of the prescription is uploaded as part of the documentation process.

After securing the payment and recording all necessary information, the phlebotomist carefully collects the required sample from the patient. To maintain sample integrity and proper identification, the phlebotomist associates the sample with a specific barcode linked to the requested test. This barcode ensures accurate tracking and traceability of the sample throughout its journey to the laboratory.

The phlebotomist then takes responsibility for the safe and timely movement of the collected samples from the patient's location to the laboratory. Ensuring proper handling and adherence to transportation protocols, the phlebotomist guarantees that the samples reach the laboratory in a secure and reliable manner.

Upon completion of all assigned home collections, the phlebotomist generates batch sheets summarizing the collected samples and relevant details. These batch sheets, along with the collected samples, are submitted to the laboratory for further processing. The laboratory meticulously validates and accepts the samples, preparing them for analysis and subsequent testing procedures.

Benefits of using the Phlebo app to handle sample movement for home collection

The fundamental concept of home collection service aims to facilitate customers by enabling them to have their samples collected from their location, thereby alleviating the burden of visiting the laboratory for diagnostic testing. This service proves valuable, particularly for individuals who face challenges in terms of accessibility, bedridden patients, or circumstances like fasting sample collection.

This mobile application offers significant benefits to phlebotomists as it allows them to record essential aspects of sample movement such as time, location and patient prescription, all from a single interface. This feature eliminates the need for manual processes and reduces the potential for manual errors.

There are several advantages associated with utilizing the Phlebo app

Precise tracking and tracing of sample collection and movement leave no room for doubt regarding the validity of the collected sample. Consequently, any potential delays can be readily anticipated and mitigated, thereby avoiding manual errors that could negatively impact the test results.

Efficient quick billing and payment collection processes facilitated by the app, ensuring that accounts remain accurate and up-to-date with no outstanding dues.

Streamlined initiation of new test orders, which can be achieved with ease through the app’s user-friendly interface.

With a comprehensive tool, it is easy to facilitate seamless sample collection and movement for the home collection process. Ensure accuracy, traceability, and efficient communication, and experience the convenience and reliability of our advanced solution. Contact us and elevate your home collection process with MocDoc's Phlebo app.

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The healthcare industry, like any other industry, is not self-reliant. Since this is an ever-evolving industry there's no stopping for the challenges that arise or the solutions for it. One such healthcare solution is the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). The Laboratory management system has been providing healthcare solutions for the industry, over the past couple of decades: but what it is?

LIMS Software And What Does It Do?

The Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) Software started as a system to keep a record of test samples, their results, and all other particulars of donor and patient samples. From the point of its inception, the laboratory management system followed the traditional methods of manual labelling and record-keeping; it was followed only until the introduction of computers to healthcare solutions.

Ever since the Laboratory Information Management System has been on a course of upward trajectory.

As the computers evolved so did software. Dedicated LIMS software packages began appearing with tweaks and new features every time. The LIMS software today is so reliable that once a test sample is collected in the lab or patient's house, it is taken to a pathology laboratory and given a tag, it is almost impossible to lose track of it. The LIMS software packages can manage and update the progress in tests and can also update the results of the tests to the database in real-time.

To put it in simple words:

A laboratory Information management system, shortly known as LIMS, is a software that is used to help lab faculties in collecting samples, processing, and delivering reports to patients. It acts as an interface between the lab faculties and the database where all the information and essential details are stored. This includes all the tests conducted under a particular facility.

LIMS Network:

In its early days, the laboratory management system was an isolated off-network system. But as technology paved the way for more advanced secure networking, the Laboratory Information Management System stepped into the next-gen of healthcare solutions.

Standalone LIMS Software:

Even though the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) Software provides easy access to the information from the database, it isn't enough. Its information resource was limited to that one particular facility alone. The limitations of a standalone laboratory management system include:

Limitations in the storage capacity of the database servers.

The maintenance of servers at the healthcare facility itself involves difficulties.

Medical procedures that involve referral to different locations will require the carrying of physical records; which is an inconvenience again.

However the chances are less: if the servers go down it is almost impossible to recover the data unless there is a backup, which will require additional servers.

Since standalone laboratory management systems are not cloud-based, sharing patient reports via App, SMS, or Email is restricted.

Since there are technologies developed already to overcome these limitations, they should be employed immediately.

LIMS Software on the Cloud:

Cloud storage is a powerful technology than it sounds. Cloud storage has virtually no limits on the storage capacity, thereby immensely supporting the laboratory information management system and other healthcare solutions.

The data centres provide a larger bandwidth to access the servers. That is more than enough to provide trafficless access.

Since the cloud servers have multiple redundant systems, there is always a backup, and data loss is not a thing to worry about.

The centralized data centre for the laboratory management system makes it possible to access data from anywhere in the world with authorization.

The maintenance of these servers is extremely cost-effective compared to the standalone LIMS Software.

As LIMS is cloud-based, it can connect multiple stakeholders. You can also have control over sample tracking, processing, and delivery. And there is easy scalability in business.

Patient Accessibility:

The interconnection of LIMS software servers also introduces the patients to the inside of the Laboratory Information Management System. Since the LIMS software made the information easily accessible, the patients can easily keep track of their records. This also helps patients to keep their health records up to date with no effort.

LIMS Beyond Limits:

The LIMS software, even though started as a record-keeping and managing healthcare solution, has now evolved into a state of complete management solution. It has given a massive boost to the administration of healthcare facilities and also the financial management of healthcare centres.

Machine Interfacing in LIMS:

The LIMS software acts as an interface between the laboratory equipment and other devices. The Laboratory Information Management System is capable of interfacing with the database in real-time to import and export data. It also acts as an interface between multiple devices within the lab for better coordination.

For instance, an MRI scanner is only a scanning machine with an image display unit and a control unit. But, with the LIMS software machine interface, the data from the scanner can be stored directly in the database to the respective patient name. It helps the doctors to analyze the data whenever required.

Time Management:

Time management is one of the most challenging objectives of management. The LIMS software used in today's healthcare facilities provides day-to-day management solutions besides healthcare solutions.

The LIMS software can make schedules for doctors and specialists. It also helps in scheduling follow-ups and cancellations of appointments at the request of patients through IVRs and websites.

Since there is always a demand for time slots to access laboratory equipment and devices, including high-cost scanners which are a rare resource, LIMS software can schedule their time slots most effectively.

In addition to these, the Laboratory Information Management System also has the in-house pharmacy records maintained, notifying the maintenance of laboratory equipment and other services.

The AI of LIMS and its future:

The future of the Laboratory Information Management System has already shown us a glimpse of what it is capable of over the years.

AI is the future of every field and the Laboratory Information Management System is no exception. The introduction of LIMS software to artificial intelligence can automate pretty much everything in the laboratory management system and improve the quality of healthcare solutions. Smart labs will be the newest addition to the list of healthcare solutions by the LIMS software.

The advancements in various supporting fields such as microfluidics, biometrics, lab-on-a-chip technologies, and their automation have ensured the steady progress of the Laboratory Information Management system. The day is not far when the AI Laboratory Information Management System (AI LIMS) will be working along with humans and serving humanity.

The Role of Laboratory Informa...

.....

As labs are updated and become more modern, better methods of data management and record-keeping may be necessary to maintain or improve efficiency. Luckily, there is a means to achieve this: Laboratory Information Management Systems, or LIMS.

With the increase in disease and the growth in the medical diagnosis sector, the number of samples collected is increasing day by day. With the help of Machine interfacing, labs can handle a large volume of samples easily, increasing the efficiency of sample processing and the quality of lab reports.

Types of Machine Interfacing in Laboratory Information Management System(LIMS):

Uni-Directional Instruments:

Overview: Uni-directional instruments operate on a one-way communication system, facilitating the seamless transfer of information from the samples to the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). In this setup, results are stored within the LIMS database upon the completion of the test process. Unlike bi-directional instruments, which support two-way communication, uni-directional instruments focus on unidimensional data flow.

Workflow Process: The workflow involves manual sample placement by the technician, who assumes the responsibility of strategically positioning samples for analysis. Additionally, the technician plays a crucial role in determining the specific type of sampling method to be employed. This hands-on approach ensures that the instrument receives accurate and relevant data for subsequent processing.

Result Storage: Upon completion of the test, the results are systematically stored in the LIMS database. This unidirectional flow of information simplifies data management, with the LIMS acting as a centralized repository for comprehensive result storage. This streamlined process contributes to the efficiency of data retrieval and analysis within the laboratory setting.

Technician Involvement: The technician's involvement is pivotal in the uni-directional instrument setup, as they guide the initial placement of samples and make informed decisions about the sampling technique. This level of manual intervention ensures precision and control over the testing process, aligning with the laboratory's specific requirements and protocols.

Uni-directional instruments, by emphasizing one-way communication and manual input from skilled technicians, contribute to a structured and controlled laboratory environment where data accuracy and integrity are paramount.

Bi-directional Instruments:

Advanced Functionality: Bi-directional instruments represent a higher level of sophistication and advancement in laboratory technology. These instruments possess the capability to not only generate output data reports and results but also feature an Application Programming Interface (API). This advanced functionality enables the seamless exchange of data, information, commands, functions, and worklists with the system.

Output Data Reports: One key feature of bi-directional instruments is their ability to generate comprehensive output data reports. These reports provide a detailed analysis of test results and relevant information, offering a comprehensive view of the findings. The generated reports serve as valuable documentation for further analysis and decision-making processes.

Results Generation: Bi-directional instruments excel at producing accurate and timely results. The dual communication capabilities allow for efficient data transfer, ensuring that results are not only generated promptly but also transmitted seamlessly to the designated system or database.

Application Programming Interface (API): A defining feature of bi-directional instruments is the inclusion of an Application Programming Interface (API). This interface facilitates the exchange of data, information, and commands between the instrument and the broader laboratory system. The API functionality enhances interoperability, enabling the instrument to import and export data with ease.

Enhanced Connectivity: Bi-directional instruments contribute to enhanced connectivity within the laboratory ecosystem. The ability to import data, information, commands, functions, and worklists through the API fosters a dynamic and integrated environment. This connectivity streamlines laboratory processes, promoting efficiency and accuracy in data handling.

Our LIMS System sends commands to the sampling unit on the type of sampling to be conducted with the given sample. After the testing is done by the LIMS command, the results are auto-fetched on the LIMS Server. The bi-directional instruments are interfaced with the LIMS system programmatically.

The Need to Interface Instruments with LIMS Software:

There are several reasons why it is beneficiary to interface lab instruments with LIMS Software. Let us look into a few reasons here:

Increase in Productivity by Effective Machine Utilization:

Interfacing your instruments with your LIMS Software is a one-time investment of cost and work with a repetitive increase in lab productivity and effectiveness. Interfacing LIMS Software with your lab instruments removes many complexities like manual entering of data every time or referring data from other instruments to the LIMS. This altogether saves a lot of time and effort when done by a LIMS rather than manually, also avoiding any human errors during data entry.

Utilizing machines effectively can increase productivity drastically. When the task is done manually, very few samples are completely analyzed in the given period, but with MI they can perform many sample processing and that will increase machine utilization and increase revenue.

Increase in Data Quality by Reducing Manual Errors:

The second best reason for interfacing your lab instruments with your LIMS Software is the increase in data quality and integrity. As a human, we are eligible to commit human errors that might not be over-influential over the system as a whole but might still be considered an error. By removing human interference, these errors are avoided thereby guaranteeing better data transfer in the system.

Similarly, transcribing data into the system by people can also lead to common errors affecting the quality of data. Data integrity is considered a very important issue in laboratories. By interfacing your instruments to your LIMS System, you will eliminate this issue.

Saves Time in output generation thereby satisfying the patients:

Machine Interfacing helps to analyze the given samples at a faster rate and generates quality results within a shorter duration of time. After the result processing is done, the report will be generated manually.

With the use of MI, ultimate patient satisfaction can be achieved by generating the results in a quick manner with good quality.

Machine interfacing in laboratories is more of a comfort rather than a negative factor. What might be a one-time investment in your labs can save a lot of time and work when interfaced properly with your systems.

Why Machine Interfacing in LIM...

As labs are updated and become more modern, better.....

In every industry, modern laboratories are under pressure to enhance operational efficiency, decrease costs, control regulatory compliance, and improve quality. Apart from this, the rise of CRO (Contract Research Organization) and R&D externalization strategies in the industry of pharmaceuticals has led to laboratories gathering enormous data from different partners, preceding a significant increase in the complexity of lab workflow.

LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) and informatics Solutions are being used in the pharmaceutical industry to meet these challenges. The main reason why cloud-based LIMS is preferred is due to its advanced features like

● Decreased cost,

● Automatic software updates,

● Disaster and backup recovery services,

● Rapid implementation of LIMS,

● Flexibility,

● Security,

● Accessibility,

● Collaborations.

One of the successful Laboratory solutions and laboratory report software used by most users is SaaS. Let's explore the SaaS in depth below.

What is SaaS?

SaaS(Software as a Service), is one of the software distribution models and types of cloud computing like IaaS and PaaS. The third-party provider hosts the program rather than downloading and installing the software to run on your PC. Once the software is hosted, it's accessed over the internet by users via a web user interface.

Why SaaS, a cloud-based LIMS, is perfect for your lab?

SaaS, pathology management software provides plenty of excellent benefits that make it the preferred option of every lab. According to the Forrester Research Inc. survey held last year, 15% of SMB (Small to Medium Businesses) and 16% of the larger organizations make use of SaaS. Compared to the previous year's research, the larger enterprise has seen a 33% increase in the Usage of SaaS. Considering the smaller enterprise, they have seen a 50% increase in SaaS. Below are some reasons to state why Cloud-based LIMS is the right option for your laboratory.

Hosting Options:

Few providers provide the private cloud option that can host within your facility. The private cloud option offers different SaaS LIMS benefits but with fewer security risks. A cloud is public; either it can be private, single-tenant, or multi-tenant. It's easier to validate the single-tenant cloud when compared to the multi-tenant as they are less prone to intrusion or data leakage.

Data Integrity and Audit Trails:

A permanent audit trail is vital for addressing different concerns in data integrity, both from the perspective of product and regulatory quality. You need to ensure that your SaaS LIMS holds a detailed and reliable audit trail for every piece of information. You also need to make sure that the data is maintained continuously on the various servers rather than on the data itself.

Apart from that, you need to ensure that your provider has set their system default to store a completely reliable and flexible audit trail. It also controls the network logs and detailed server. It offers data center third-party auditing insurance. You need to ensure your SaaS LIMS is capable of integrating with the other informatics systems and with your instruments.

Service Level Agreement:

You must develop a Service Level Agreement with your provider who will be able to address all of the above-concerned areas and more. A Service Level Agreement that is well written is capable of making the variation between a smooth execution & roll out of your SaaS time overruns, cost, and a few of the unexpected expenses incurred.

Security:

When dealing with a SaaS Laboratory Management System, you will depend upon your providers to secure your pieces of information as it is going to be stored in the cloud. Almost every cloud service provider offers excellent security for your valuable data.

Even though the data breach risk is less, few organizations that belong to heavily regulated areas hesitate to enable their information to move away from their firewall. Make sure you have evaluated the policies of your security thoroughly. It means you have your data secured adequately before working with SaaS LIMS.

Validation:

The important compliance responsibility with every regulation resets with the service provider or manufacturer. Most of the vendors advertise these cloud-based SaaS LIMS as a prevalidated system. But this refers to the network of cloud providers. You need to ensure that you get clear about the meaning of the prevalidated system by the vendor. Also, you need to know what scope is covered so that you can know your system is executed in the right way in the user environment.

Apart from that, SaaS LIMS cloud providers handle every clinical laboratory software patch and upgrade. It ensures that you utilize the system's recent version. You need to understand who should manage revalidation once there is an upgrade or patches take place.

Business Continuity:

You need to understand how data recovery and backup can be handled, and also explore who is the reason and responsible for it. The details of the guarantee like service, response time, hardware, uptime, etc. provided by the provider should be stated clearly in the SLA (Service Level Agreement). Apart from that, the Service Level Agreement should contain the details of recovery and backup services that are included. Also, it should hold the cost incurred by exploring a few of the optional services.

System Failover:

There can't be anyone who didn't use Google. For instance, what will happen in case a rogue asteroid crashes into the server farms of Google? Nothing happens. Airtight failover technology and Mirrored servers indicate that the news service will display the crater's aerial photos, which once acted as the server farm. High availability and uptime are included in the terms & conditions of the cloud deals that are negotiated in any form.

Instrument Interfacing:

The complexity of the SaaS LIMS is challenging. Private, hosted, and On-Premises cloud LIMS is capable of handling instrument interfacing in the same manner. It is difficult to understand the SaaS LIMS cloud providers' ability, track record, and philosophy when you deal with the instrument interface.

Economics of Scale:

SaaS LIMS cloud providers provide you with more or less due to the technology's specialized use. As many customers utilize identical resources at the same cost, data centers, are slashed, and then the savings are passed to the customer.

Bottom Line:

In the past few years, technology providers have developed cloud-based SaaS LIMS based on market demand. SaaS LIMS enables to facilitate enhanced scalability, agility, innovation, and connectivity across the lab environment. It helps to increase efficiency in operation as well as decrease cost. The decision to make use of a cloud-based SaaS LIMS will be taken into step by a mix of various concerns like regulatory, operations, and security. The best way to ensure that your corporation benefits the higher from a SaaS approach to a laboratory information management system is to work with a top-notch informatics consultant.

Is Cloud-Based SaaS Laboratory...

In every industry, modern laboratories are under p.....

A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS): Why Do You Need One?

The adoption of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) has become increasingly crucial. This comprehensive guide delves deep into the reasons behind investing in LIMS, shedding light on the myriad benefits it offers to laboratory operations. As we explore the multifaceted facets of LIMS, you'll discover how this powerful tool revolutionizes lab management, enhancing precision, efficiency, and overall quality. Whether you're running a pathology lab, clinical research facility, or any laboratory, this article is your key to understanding why LIMS is a game-changer.

Chapter 1: LIMS Software - A Paradigm Shift in Lab Management

In this digital age, traditional manual processes in laboratories have become a bottleneck, prone to errors and inefficiencies. LIMS software, also known as a laboratory management system, emerges as a game-changer, transforming how laboratories operate. It encompasses a wide range of functionalities, including ERP tools, data analytics capabilities, and virtual software. Let's explore why LIMS is gaining ground in modern laboratories.

1.1. Error-Free Precision

LIMS software is designed to be virtually error-free, a crucial feature for laboratories dealing with sensitive data. Manual handling of laboratory tasks often leads to data mismatches, incorrect readings, and erroneous updates. LIMS ensures impeccable record precision, eliminating these sources of error.

1.2. Centralized Data Access

One of the standout features of LIMS is its ability to provide centralized data access. This means that patient records and reports are easily accessible to authorized personnel. Clinicians, technicians, and other stakeholders can quickly reference and verify patient details. Moreover, LIMS automatically updates critical values and responds to crises, ensuring immediate attention to critical cases.

1.3. Seamless Integration with Instruments

LIMS seamlessly integrates with clinical instruments, streamlining the testing process. It automatically retrieves and stores test results in its primary database, eliminating the need for manual data entry. This not only reduces the risk of errors but also saves valuable time.

Chapter 2: Enhancing Patient Experience through LIMS

2.1. Patient-Focused Updates

LIMS introduces a new level of patient engagement by providing real-time updates. Patients no longer need to anxiously wait for their test results. Instead, they receive automatic updates via SMS or email, along with concise test result summaries. This not only enhances patient satisfaction but also ensures they are well-informed about the progress of their tests.

2.2. Sample Tracking for Quality Assurance

LIMS initiates meticulous sample tracking from the moment a sample is collected. It records clinical reports, phenotypic information, and even freezer locations in great detail. This comprehensive tracking covers freeze and thaw cycles, collection centre details, and responsible clinicians or lab technicians. With LIMS, samples are guaranteed to remain accurate and traceable throughout the entire process, ensuring the highest quality standards.

Chapter 3: Efficiency and Workflow Optimization with LIMS

3.1. Faster Turnaround Time (TAT)

Manual handling of laboratory processes often leads to delays in delivering test results to patients and clinicians. LIMS streamlines these processes, reducing errors and the need for cross-verification. It also efficiently manages and calibrates connected medical instruments, automatically updating them in response to alarming readings. This enhanced efficiency significantly improves the overall Turnaround Time (TAT).

3.2. Hassle-Free Workflow

LIMS takes the hassle out of managing laboratory workflow. The software automates workflow and records maintenance, saving valuable time. As processes are codified within the system, LIMS guides technicians on instrument usage and process handling. This reduces manual interventions for record movement and tracking, making the entire process hassle-free.

3.3. Streamlined Workflow for Doctors and Patients

LIMS offers dedicated login portals for doctors and patients. With preset templates for generating and sending invoices, it streamlines the workflow efficiency. Additionally, doctors and patients can easily access and compare current reports with previous ones, making diagnosis and treatment decisions more efficient.

Chapter 4: Productivity and Quality Control with LIMS

4.1. Enhanced Productivity

LIMS significantly boosts productivity in laboratory settings. It automatically shares lab test results across users, eliminating the need for manual distribution. Quick access to patient history is another productivity booster. Reports are synchronized with physicians' Electronic Medical Records (EMR) for rapid access. Automatic updates and alerts are generated for abnormalities, reducing the need for manual intervention. Furthermore, LIMS enables digital signatures, further cutting down on wait times for approving physical documents.

4.2. Quality Control Assurance

Maintaining quality in laboratory testing is paramount, and LIMS excels in this regard. Through effective Quality Control measures, identifying variations becomes easier. Quality Control results are stored as a database and can be compared to actual results, providing complete control over deviations or errors. With accreditations like NABL and others, LIMS ensures the highest quality standards in results and workflow.

The Future of Laboratory Information Management System(LIMS)

LIMS software is at the forefront of transforming laboratory management. Whether you operate a pathology lab, clinical research facility, or any other type of laboratory, investing in LIMS is a decision that promises to revolutionize your operations. Its integration of advanced technology, error reduction, streamlined workflow, enhanced quality control, and patient-focused features make it an indispensable tool in the healthcare industry. Embrace LIMS to stay ahead of the curve, enhance precision, boost efficiency, and deliver top-notch results while ensuring patient satisfaction.

With LIMS, the future of lab management is brighter than ever. It's time to invest in the future and take your laboratory operations to new heights with this powerful tool. Take advantage of the opportunity to be at the forefront of modern laboratory management. Invest in LIMS today, and reap the benefits of precision, efficiency, and quality.

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A Laboratory Information Management System (LIM.....

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Eliminating Inconveniences at Home Sample Collection: The Phlebo App

Published By Preethi

Category LIMS

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