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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Effective Steps to Manage Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) Software

Upgrading your clinical laboratory might be the latest enhancement you are implementing in your lab. This upgrade means you are automating the key functions to easily maintain the workflow. To make sure that your systems work in a smooth, harmonized, and safe manner, consider installing a cloud-based Laboratory Information Management system in your Lab. The cloud-based LIMS is no doubt the best choice to make as it has many advantages. A few of these are:

The data stored in the cloud are fully encrypted, hence 100% data safety.
Cost saving as there is no need for server maintenance.
With effective data recovery, any data loss can be reverted.
No manpower is required as everything is stored in the cloud, unlike physical servers.

Below are some simple tips to effectively manage your Cloud-based Laboratory Information Management System:

Implement a Cloud-Based Service Desk:

The most important step to do while implementing a cloud-based LIMS system is to provide a mini web page for clients to find information that caters to the needs of every patient. The internet is the influence king of the virtual world; so most of your patients will visit your website first, before heading over to your lab. Set up a cloud-based service desk and assist your patients just like you would do in your physical laboratory premises.

Make sure the webpage has a live chat facility so your customers can chat about the types of tests they can do and laboratory locations. Providing a live chat facility can help you to follow up in case the customers log out of the page suddenly. Also, features such as patient portals and customer portals empower your customers to download reports through the website making them completely independent.

Ease of Mobility:

Investing in a LIMS mobile app or website is the biggest advantage that Cloud-based servers can provide a laboratory. Since the data is stored at a remote location and is not bound by the constraints of physical hardware on the premises, investing in a mobile version of your laboratory’s website or even an App is a good idea.

You can take patient satisfaction to another level when you offer your patients and potential patients the ease to reach or access their health information on the go. With a virtual service desk in place, going mobile would mean more and better interactions and increased patient satisfaction.

LIMS Software Staff Training:

It’s essential to train laboratory staff to unlock the full power of your LIMS software application. To utilize LIMS software effectively, you can segregate the employees, departments wise, and provide training accordingly. Delegating one person as the head of training in every department can take the responsibility of providing LIMS-related knowledge sharing and periodic training. LIMS software training can include configuration options, storage, and retrieval of data, managing your workflows, and reporting. Staff training in each department is very important for businesses to succeed.

Increase Speed of Operation:

LIMS Software, specifically designed for laboratory information management, plays a pivotal role in optimizing operations. With a focus on pathology lab software, LIMS efficiently monitors various aspects such as Sample monitoring, sample workflow processes, patient visit count, inventory flow, cash flow, consultant performance, and overall business fluctuations over time. Through the analysis of these metrics, LIMS issues performance-based documents and develops standard quality indicators and key performance indicators, providing a comprehensive solution for laboratory management.

Additionally, Cloud-based LIS (Laboratory Information System) enhances the speed of laboratory operations. While technology facilitates remote meetings, Cloud-based LIS goes a step further by enabling access to data from any location, granting the user the necessary access rights. This feature ensures a swift exchange of information, contributing to an overall increase in the speed of laboratory operations. By seamlessly connecting personnel across different locations, the Cloud-based LIS becomes a valuable asset in streamlining workflows and promoting efficiency within the laboratory environment.

Ease up the Implementation Process and Quality Indicators:

The constant check of quality to ensure stability in business is a major requirement for any industry. With clinical laboratory, it is more of a service quality check rather than product one. Hence, quality indicators are of utmost importance to a laboratory.

LIMS Software, specifically designed for laboratory information management, can efficiently monitor various aspects of laboratory operations such as Sample monitoring, sample workflow process, patient visit count, inventory flow, cash flow, consultant performance, and overall business fluctuations over a period. The system analyzes these metrics to issue performance-based documents, and through the utilization of cloud technology, LIMS can develop standard quality indicators and key performance indicators.

By integrating a cloud-based LIMS System into your laboratory functions, you can optimize processes and identify areas for improvement. This innovative solution allows you to identify and understand your business metrics, paving the way for enhanced business optimization through the power of cloud technology. Whether it's managing sample workflows or evaluating consultant performance, the inclusion of LIMS Software, tailored for pathology lab software, brings a comprehensive and efficient approach to managing laboratory operations.

5 Effective Steps to Manage LI...

Effective Steps to Manage Laboratory Information M.....

MocDoc’s Runnr mobile/web application is designed to handle the sample collection for B2B clients seamlessly. Handling a B2B sample movement can present multiple challenges. One challenge is the potential for delays and miscommunication, leading to samples not reaching the main lab on time. This can disrupt testing timelines and delay crucial results. Another is the manual nature of the process, which increases the risk of human errors such as misplaced or mislabeled samples. Additionally, coordinating logistics and ensuring proper documentation can be time-consuming and prone to inefficiencies.

Overall, the lack of a streamlined system for sample movement in the B2B context can result in operational challenges, delays, and errors impacting the efficiency and reliability of laboratory processes.

To overcome this, MocDoc has designed an application that is used by Runnr, the person who is responsible for collecting test samples from the partnered lab and submitting the same at the main lab. This application is used in the pre-analytical phase of the sample lifecycle.

Sample collection for B2B clients - workflow

In the process of handling B2B sample movement between the main and partner labs, several steps are involved. Once a partnered lab requests a test with the main lab, a runnr is assigned by the main lab to facilitate the sample collection and transfer. The partner lab generates a "Test Requisition Form" (TRF) that contains all the necessary details of the requested tests. This form, along with the test sample, is then shared with the assigned runnr.

The TRF serves as a crucial document as it outlines the specific tests to be conducted on the collected samples. The identification of the samples is typically done through barcodes that link them to the associated patients, ensuring accurate tracking and traceability.

The assigned runnr is responsible for ensuring the safe and timely delivery of both the TRF and the test sample to the main lab. Upon receiving the samples, the main lab validates and accepts them, carefully verifying the information provided in the TRF. Subsequently, the main lab proceeds to process the samples for the requested tests, following the established protocols and procedures.

Efficient coordination and communication between the partner and main labs, as well as the diligent execution of the sample transfer process by the runnr, are essential to ensuring the smooth flow of samples and accurate testing outcomes.

Benefits of using the Runnr app to handle B2B sample movement

Using the Runnr app, the personnel designated to handle the sample movement between the partnered and the main lab can perform the process effectively, as it is easy to generate and share the TRF, and also to record progress from time to time. Here are a few benefits of using the Runnr app

● The application enables users to generate and submit the TRF online, eliminating the need for manual paperwork and reducing the likelihood of errors such as missing records.

● Barcodes are generated to uniquely identify test samples in relation to patients, streamlining the handling process and ensuring accurate testing. They facilitate the correlation of samples with the correct patients and requested tests, reducing errors.

● Sample movement is closely monitored as the runnr transfers them between labs, enabling efficient tracking of delays and issues.

● Prior to testing, a meticulous verification process confirms the correct sample. This adds an extra layer of quality control, minimizing errors and mix-ups.

The combined use of barcodes, monitoring, and verification enhances the overall accuracy and efficiency of the testing procedure.

Incorporating a dedicated mobile/web application for B2B sample movement has revolutionized the process, eliminating manual efforts and errors. Seamless generation and submission of TRFs, along with barcode identification, ensure accurate testing and correlation with patients. With real-time monitoring, delays can be promptly addressed.

Embrace the power of technology for efficient and error-free sample handling. Try the Runnr app today and streamline your B2B sample management. Unleash the complete potential of your laboratory with our Mocdoc LIMS Software.

Revolutionize B2B sample colle...

MocDoc’s Runnr mobile/web application is designe.....

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.....

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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Eliminating Inconveniences at Home Sample Collection: The Phlebo App

Published By Preethi

Category LIMS

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