Towards an evaluation framework for Laboratory Information Systems.
BACKGROUND
Laboratory testing and reporting are error-prone and redundant due to repeated, unnecessary requests and delayed or missed reactions to laboratory reports. Occurring errors may negatively affect the patient treatment process and clinical decision making. Evaluation on laboratory testing and Laboratory Information System (LIS) may explain the root cause to improve the testing process and enhance LIS in supporting the process. This paper discusses a new evaluation framework for LIS that encompasses the laboratory testing cycle and the socio-technical part of LIS.


METHODS
Literature review on discourses, dimensions and evaluation methods of laboratory testing and LIS. A critical appraisal of the Total Testing Process (TTP) and the human, organization, technology-fit factors (HOT-fit) evaluation frameworks was undertaken in order to identify error incident, its contributing factors and preventive action pertinent to laboratory testing process and LIS.


RESULTS
A new evaluation framework for LIS using a comprehensive and socio-technical approach is outlined. Positive relationship between laboratory and clinical staff resulted in a smooth laboratory testing process, reduced errors and increased process efficiency whilst effective use of LIS streamlined the testing processes.


CONCLUSIONS
The TTP-LIS framework could serve as an assessment as well as a problem-solving tool for the laboratory testing process and system.
Centre for Software Technology & Management, Faculty of Information Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia. Electronic address: Maryati.Yusof@ukm.edu.my.
Maryati M
MM
Yusof
Centre for Software Technology & Management, Faculty of Information Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia. Electronic address: azilaarifin@ymail.com.
Azila
A
Arifin
D002984:Clinical Laboratory Information Systems; D006302:Health Services Research / Q000379:methods* / Q000458:organization & administration; D006801:Humans; D059021:Laboratory Proficiency Testing / Q000379:methods* / Q000458:organization & administration
Error; Evaluation; Framework; Laboratory Information Systems; Total Testing Process