9 Challenges to Good Laboratory IT Structure

Diagnostic labs deal with massive amounts of data from both patients and providers. 

Managing that data requires a good IT (Information Technology) setup -- which, is easier said than done.  

In fact, here are the top 9 challenges to laboratory optimization IT structure, as well as some possible solutions.

1. Focus From Management

One of the biggest challenges for labs is getting management on board with their IT strategy.  

This means convincing decision-makers that a robust IT infrastructure is necessary and will ultimately save time and money.  

Unfortunately, this can be a difficult task considering the many competing priorities that managers face on a daily basis. 

And so the first step to ensuring a successful laboratory IT strategy implementation is achieving management commitment.  

This means going beyond lip service and ensuring that top executives, department heads, and support staff are all involved in creating a culture where lab data capture is automatically recognized as a mission-critical function.  

Sometimes, this needs to be achieved through changes in compensation models or even legal agreements. 

2. Not Addressing Root Causes

Too often, labs try to address IT problems only after they've already caused significant damage. 

This "firefighting" mentality can be costly and disruptive, not to mention ineffective in the long run.  

A better approach is to identify and address the root causes of IT issues.  

This means taking a holistic view of the lab's operations and using information management (IM) solutions to optimize workflows.  

For example, which laboratory processes are most time-consuming? Where are the biggest opportunities for efficiencies? These are questions that can be answered by analyzing historical data on current lab IT processes.  

Information management can help to identify these and other issues so that they can be fixed before they cause any damage.

3. Paperwork Overload

One of the main reasons labs turn to IT solutions is to reduce paperwork.  

After all, who wants to spend hours sorting through paper files when they could be analyzing test results?  

Unfortunately, many labs end up with tons of paperwork thanks to their half-baked IT systems.  

This is usually because the IT systems are not properly integrated with the lab's workflows.  

For example, if a lab orders tests from a reference laboratory, the results may be sent back electronically.  

But if that reference lab is using an outdated IT system, the results will be sent as paper files, meaning extra work for the staff at the lab.  

The solution to this problem is to ensure that all of the lab's IT systems are properly integrated and working together.  

This means having a comprehensive plan for information management, including data entry, retrieval, and storage.

4. Disparate Data Sources

Another common challenge for labs is dealing with disparate data sources.  

This means having different systems for collecting and managing data, often from different departments or even different hospitals.  

Not only can this lead to inconsistencies and redundancies, but it also makes it difficult to get a complete picture of the lab's operations.  

The solution to this problem is to create a single, centralized data source.  

This can be done by consolidating all of the lab's data into a single database or by using data integration tools to connect different systems.

5. Return on Investment

One of the biggest challenges for labs in justifying IT software investments is demonstrating a clear return on investment (ROI).  

This can be difficult, especially when the lab is already stretched thin financially.  

The key to calculating an accurate ROI is to identify and quantify (as closely as possible) the benefits of the proposed IT system.  

This includes factors such as improved efficiency, reduced paperwork, and increased accuracy.  

It's also important to consider the costs of not implementing the system, such as the cost of lost productivity or errors.  

Once all of these factors have been considered, it's possible to develop a realistic ROI calculation and move forward with a better IT strategy.

6. Lack of In-House Skills

One of the main reasons labs struggle with IT is a lack of in-house skills.  

This often means that the lab is reliant on outside vendors that aren’t familiar with laboratory workflows for support. This can be both costly and disruptive.  

The solution to this problem is to choose outside vendors that work with labs and know all the elements to successfully implement laboratory software.

7. Security Risks

As labs collect more and more sensitive data, they become a prime target for cyber attacks. 

This means that it's critical to have strong security measures in place to protect the lab from unauthorized access or theft.  

The best way to do this is by implementing a comprehensive security plan that includes firewalls, antivirus software, and data encryption.  

It's also important to keep your systems up to date so that they are less vulnerable to attack.

8. Over-Complicated Systems

Another common challenge for labs is over-complicated systems.  

This can be caused by a number of factors, such as outdated software, redundant systems, or a lack of standardization.  

The solution to this problem is to simplify your IT systems as much as possible.  

This means eliminating unnecessary features, consolidating systems, and standardizing procedures.  

It can also help to appoint a single person or team to be responsible for overseeing IT operations.

9. Revenue Loss During Implementation

It’s also important to consider potential revenue loss during the implementation of a new IT system.  

This can often happen when the lab is reliant on outside vendors for support.  

Vendors may be unable to provide support during the implementation process, which can lead to disruptions in operations and lost revenue.  

The best way to avoid this is by planning for a smooth implementation process and ensuring that all of your vendors are aware of the schedule.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are a number of challenges that diagnostic labs face when it comes to building an effective IT strategy.  

But with careful planning and a bit of forethought, these challenges can be overcome.  

Hopefully, this article has given you a better understanding of what to expect and how to address the common challenges involved in IT strategy development.