title: Information for medical decision making. Improving our laboratory reports.
abstract: The primary product of the laboratory is information. Greater attention should be devoted to how laboratory reports are presented to ensure that information is being conveyed effectively to the clinician. Different reporting techniques, including test-by-test, interim, cumulative, and completed accession reports, are appropriate for different patient populations and physician needs. This article includes many suggestions for improved layout and content of laboratory reports, including the use of PostScript-based laser printers, as well as display work-stations and voice response.
authors.affiliation: University of Southern California School of Medicine, Los Angeles.
authors.forename: R D
authors.initials: RD
authors.lastname: Aller
mesh_terms: D002984:Clinical Laboratory Information Systems; D003199:Computer Systems; D003626:Data Display; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D007255:Information Services / Q000458:organization & administration*