scroll-arrow
2024111213:22:12

Streamlining Anatomical Pathology Investigations with MocDoc's Process 

Published by: Mohammed Siddiq

Introduction

Pathology laboratories handle a wide range of sample types, each requiring unique protocols for accurate analysis. In contrast to clinical pathology tests (like biochemistry or hematology) which are often processed quickly with automated analyzers, Anatomical pathology investigations, such as histopathology and cytopathology, require multiple, meticulous stages before reaching the result entry stage. Recognizing the complexity of these workflows, MocDoc has introduced the Staged Process Tracking feature for Anatomical pathology. This feature enables labs to track each essential process step with precision, ensuring quality control and timely processing for complex investigations.

Challenges in Managing Anatomical Pathology Workflows

For clinical pathology, samples like blood or urine can be analyzed and reported quickly. However, for complex cases in histopathology and cytology, a range of steps must be completed to prepare and analyze the specimen. Challenges specific to these cases include:

  1. Multi-Step Workflows: Multiple stages—grossing, embedding, slicing, and staining—are required for accurate results.
  2. Tracking Each Process: Monitoring each of these steps can be time-consuming, particularly when handling multiple samples concurrently.
  3. Maintaining Quality and Accountability: Each stage in the workflow must be documented and completed to ensure the highest quality and accuracy in test results.
Introducing MocDoc’s Staged Process Tracking Feature

MocDoc’s Staged Process Tracking option offers a solution tailored for these multi-step pathology workflows. This feature allows pathology labs to define and monitor each process required for complex sample analysis, from initial preparation to the final observation. By configuring the Enable Stages option in the test master, labs can structure an efficient and organized workflow for these cases, ensuring a smooth transition through each stage.

How the Feature Works

  1. Enable Stages Configuration: Labs activate the "Enable Stages" option within the test master to identify investigations needing multi-step tracking.
  2. Defining Process Stages: Lab managers can define each critical step within the workflow. Stages might include: Cassette-Making Grossing (Initial examination of the specimen) Specimen Processing (Preparation for further analysis) Embedding in Wax (Preparation for slicing) Slicing and Slide Preparation Staining and Mounting
  3. Staged Orders Screen: Following sample collection, investigations appear in the Staged Orders screen, where each predefined stage must be completed before the investigation advances to result entry. This ensures that every required process is tracked and completed in sequence.
  4. Final Result Entry: Once all stages are marked complete, the sample becomes available on the result entry screen for the technician to record and save findings.
Key Benefits of Staged Process Tracking

  1. Organized Workflow: The structured staging process keeps complex pathology investigations organized, with each step clearly documented.
  2. Enhanced Accountability: Designating each stage to specific personnel adds accountability, minimizing errors and ensuring accuracy.
  3. Real-Time Process Tracking: The Staged Orders screen enables seamless tracking of each step, allowing team members to easily view and update sample progress.
  4. Optimized Patient Care: By providing precise, consistent results, MocDoc’s staging feature ensures that patients receive high-quality diagnostics without delays.
Conclusion

MocDoc’s Staged Process Tracking feature for Anatomical pathology brings organization and control to complex investigations, transforming the way laboratories handle multi-step procedures in histopathology and cytology. By incorporating a structured approach to sample management, this feature enhances both operational efficiency and patient care, providing labs with a valuable tool for maintaining high standards in diagnostic quality.

Related Blogs

Left Arrow Right Arrow

In the fast-paced environment of clinical laboratories, efficient workflow management is critical for ensuring timely and accurate test results. Recognizing the challenges faced by laboratory professionals, we’ve introduced two robust features—Emergency Sample Priority Listing and Mark as Not Performed—designed to streamline processes, prioritize patient care, and manage exceptions effectively.

1. Emergency Sample Priority Listing

In critical medical situations, every second counts. Certain patient samples may require immediate attention due to the urgency of the patient's medical condition or specific requirements. To address this, our laboratory model includes the Emergency Sample Priority Listing feature, enabling laboratories to process and dispatch samples on a priority basis.

How It Works:

  • Billing Stage Integration: The emergency sample process begins at the billing screen. When creating a bill, the billing user can flag a sample as "Emergency" using the Emergency Sample Action button.
  • Defining Emergency Requirements: The user can: Specify the investigations/tests to be prioritized. Set an emergency turnaround time (TAT) to ensure the tests are processed and results dispatched within a defined timeframe. Provide a reason for the emergency, ensuring clarity and accountability.
  • Lab Order Screen Priority: Once marked as an emergency, the sample is automatically displayed at the top of the Lab Order Screen, tagged as "Emergency." The reason for the priority is prominently displayed to assist lab technicians and pathologists in recognizing and acting on the urgency.
Benefits:

  • Improved Patient Care: Ensures that critical tests are processed and results are delivered promptly, aiding in faster medical intervention.
  • Streamlined Workflow: Lab professionals can quickly identify and prioritize emergency samples without disrupting regular processes.
  • Transparency: Clear documentation of emergency reasons enhances accountability and communication between billing and lab teams.
By leveraging this feature, laboratories can ensure that life-critical tests receive the attention they deserve, significantly improving patient outcomes.

2. Mark as Not Performed

Not all test orders proceed as planned. There are instances where patients may fail to provide required samples or the submitted samples are inadequate for testing. To handle such scenarios effectively, our system incorporates the Mark as Not Performed feature, allowing laboratories to manage unprocessed investigations seamlessly.

How It Works:

  • Handling Unprovided or Inadequate Samples: When a patient fails to provide a sample (e.g., a urine sample in a health package) or submits an inadequate sample, the investigation order remains in the lab order screen.
  • Marking as Not Performed: Lab technicians can: Use the Mark as Not Performed option to indicate that the test is not processed. Define a reason for marking the test as not performed, such as "Sample not provided" or "Sample inadequate."
  • Moving to Not Performed Order Screen: Once marked, the test is removed from the active lab order screen and shifted to the Not Performed Order Screen for record-keeping.
  • Reverting the Status: If the patient provides the sample later or resolves the issue, the test can be reverted from the Not Performed Order Screen back to active processing, ensuring flexibility in managing lab orders.
Benefits:

  • Operational Efficiency: Keeps the active lab order screen clutter-free, allowing lab staff to focus on actionable tasks.
  • Accurate Record Management: Ensures that every unprocessed investigation is documented with a reason, maintaining transparency.
  • Reusability: Provides an easy way to reactivate investigations when the necessary samples are obtained, reducing redundancy.
By effectively managing exceptions, the Mark as Not Performed feature enhances workflow clarity and ensures smooth laboratory operations.

Why These Features Matter

Together, the Emergency Sample Priority Listing and Mark as Not Performed features address critical pain points in laboratory management. While the former focuses on prioritizing urgent cases to improve patient outcomes, the latter ensures efficient handling of unprocessed investigations without disrupting ongoing workflows.

These features reflect our commitment to equipping laboratories with tools that enhance efficiency, ensure accuracy, and prioritize patient care. With our laboratory model, you can achieve streamlined processes, better resource utilization, and improved client satisfaction.

Conclusion

In today’s healthcare landscape, laboratories face increasing demands for accuracy, speed, and flexibility. By incorporating features like Emergency Sample Priority Listing and Mark as Not Performed, we empower laboratories to meet these challenges head-on, ensuring that critical cases receive prompt attention while maintaining smooth operational workflows.

Explore how these features can transform your laboratory operations today!

Enhancing Laboratory Effi...

In the fast-paced environment of clinical laboratories, effic.....

Published by: Mohammed Siddiq 2024112509:37:48


Introduction:

In an increasingly diverse society, laboratories must adapt to the linguistic requirements of their patient populations. To improve communication and accessibility, we have introduced a feature that allows lab reports to include test result names in additional languages. This article outlines the innovative changes implemented to support multilingual reporting.

The Challenge: Meeting Language Requirements

As laboratories expand their services, they often face the challenge of effectively communicating with patients who speak different languages. Providing test results in multiple languages is essential for ensuring that all patients understand their medical information, promoting inclusivity and better healthcare outcomes.

The Solution: Additional Language Field in Test Masters

To address this challenge, we have added an Additional Language Field in the test master configuration. Here’s how it works:

1. New Field in Test Masters 🛠️

Implementation: A new text field, labeled Additional Language, has been incorporated next to the existing Result Name field in the test masters.

Functionality:

  • Users can enter the test result name in the required additional language alongside the standard result value.
  • This feature ensures that both the original and translated names appear on the lab reports, enhancing accessibility for patients.
Benefit: This allows laboratories to provide comprehensive test information in a language that resonates with a broader patient demographic.

2. Selective Language Display Using jQuery Configuration 🔧

Customization: To ensure that not all providers require multilingual reports, we implemented a jQuery configuration that controls the visibility of the additional language field based on provider selection.

Functionality:

  • The additional language result will only be displayed on lab reports for specific providers as configured by the laboratory.
  • This selective display ensures that the feature meets the precise needs of the laboratory's clientele.
Benefit: This customization respects the linguistic diversity of patients while maintaining clarity and consistency in reporting practices.

Advantages of the Feature:

  1. Enhanced Understanding 🗣️ Patients receive test results in a language they are comfortable with, improving their comprehension of health information.
  2. Improved Patient Experience 😊 By providing multilingual reports, laboratories foster a welcoming environment for patients, promoting trust and satisfaction.
  3. Selective Language Display 🔍 The use of a jQuery configuration allows labs to control which providers receive multilingual reports, ensuring customization based on specific needs.
  4. Streamlined Operations 📈 Automating the inclusion of additional languages reduces manual errors and administrative burdens, enhancing overall efficiency.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Inclusive Healthcare

The introduction of the Additional Language Field in lab reports marks a significant advancement towards inclusivity in healthcare services. By accommodating the language needs of diverse patient populations, laboratories can enhance understanding, improve communication, and foster better healthcare experiences.

Our commitment to innovation ensures that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our clients and their patients, setting a precedent for future enhancements that prioritize accessibility and inclusivity in laboratory communications.

Enhancing Lab Reports: Mu...

Introduction:In an increasingly diverse society, laboratories.....

Published by: Mohammed Siddiq 2024100715:21:15

Introduction:

In today's healthcare landscape, laboratories often rely on referrals from doctors to drive patient volume. However, managing these referrals can be cumbersome, leading to potential errors, inefficiencies, and missed opportunities. The traditional workflow involving doctors, patients, and labs often lacks coordination, which can impact patient care and laboratory operations. This article explores the common problems faced by laboratories in handling referral doctors and how MocDoc’s Referral Doctor Portal provides an effective solution.

The Problem: Challenges in Managing Doctor Referrals

Laboratories face several challenges when working with referral doctors:

  1. Inefficient Communication: Marketing teams from labs reach out to local doctors to establish referral relationships. Doctors provide diagnostic forms to patients, but communication about tests can be unclear or inconsistent.
  2. Manual Data Entry: When patients arrive at the lab, their information is often entered manually, which can lead to errors. Patients must repeat their details, creating redundancy and frustration.
  3. Lack of Visibility: Labs have limited insight into how many patients each doctor is referring, making it difficult to follow up with patients who do not visit.
  4. Missed Revenue Opportunities: If a patient does not visit the lab, the lab loses potential revenue and the doctor misses out on commissions.
The Solution: MocDoc’s Referral Doctor Portal

MocDoc addresses these challenges by providing a Referral Doctor Portal, which simplifies the referral process and enhances communication between doctors and laboratories. Here’s how it works:

1. Simplified Referral Process 🏥

Problem: Inefficient communication leads to confusion in the referral process. Solution: The Referral Doctor Portal allows doctors to easily add patient information and specify tests.

Key Features:

  • Instant Patient Entry: Doctors can quickly enter the patient’s name and select the required tests in the portal.
  • Order Generation: Each referral creates an order that appears in the processing lab’s account, ensuring immediate visibility.
Benefit: This streamlined process eliminates communication gaps, making it easy for doctors to refer patients directly to the lab.

2. Real-Time Visibility for Labs 👀

Problem: Labs struggle to track referral activity. Solution: The portal enables labs to monitor referrals from multiple doctors.

Key Features:

  • External Doctor's Request Screen: Labs can view a list of all patients referred by doctors in real time.
  • Daily Tracking: This screen allows labs to identify how many patients each doctor has referred for a given day.
Benefit: Labs can proactively follow up with patients who haven’t yet visited, ensuring they do not miss out on potential tests and commissions.

3. Automated Patient Registration 📋

Problem: Manual data entry leads to errors and inefficiencies. Solution: When a patient arrives at the lab, their mobile number can be used to quickly locate their referral.

Key Features:

  • Mobile Number Search: Upon entering the patient’s mobile number, the lab can see if there’s an existing order request.
  • Quick Registration and Billing: If the number matches, the lab can instantly create a registration and billing entry, pulling in all required information automatically.
Benefit: This automation reduces manual typing, minimizes errors, and speeds up the registration process, enhancing the patient experience.

4. Improved Billing Accuracy 💵

Problem: Inaccurate billing can lead to revenue loss. Solution: The system ensures that all investigations requested by the doctor are billed correctly.

Key Features:

  • Auto-Generated Billing: All tests selected by the doctor are automatically included in the patient’s bill.
  • Consistent Pricing: The lab can apply the agreed commission structure for each referral, ensuring accurate compensation for the doctor.
Benefit: This functionality eliminates billing errors and ensures that doctors receive their commissions in a timely manner.

Conclusion: Enhancing Efficiency with MocDoc

MocDoc’s Referral Doctor Portal transforms the way laboratories manage their relationships with referral doctors. By simplifying the referral process, providing real-time visibility, automating patient registration, and ensuring accurate billing, MocDoc effectively addresses the common challenges faced in laboratory workflows.

This integrated solution not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances collaboration between doctors and laboratories, ultimately leading to better patient care and increased revenue opportunities. For labs looking to streamline their referral processes and improve their operations, MocDoc offers a robust and user-friendly solution.

Streamlining Laboratory W...

Introduction:In today's healthcare landscape, laboratories of.....

Published by: Mohammed Siddiq 2024100715:35:57

Outsourcing tests is a critical aspect of laboratory operations, but it comes with challenges such as maintaining accuracy, ensuring timely results, and managing external collaborations effectively. Laboratories often struggle with errors in test mapping, delayed reports, and tracking the status of outsourced tests, leading to inefficiencies and potential impacts on patient care.

MocDoc LIMS addresses these challenges head-on with its Outsource Management feature, a robust solution that simplifies the outsourcing process while ensuring transparency, accountability, and flexibility. Here's how MocDoc LIMS helps laboratories overcome the most pressing outsourcing hurdles.

Challenges in Managing Outsourced Tests

  1. Complex Test Mapping Laboratories often manage multiple external labs, each handling a range of tests with unique pricing and protocols. Mapping these tests accurately and maintaining an up-to-date database can be cumbersome.
  2. Lack of Real-Time Tracking Once a test is outsourced, tracking its progress is often a blind spot for many labs, resulting in delayed results and patient dissatisfaction.
  3. Error-Prone Workflows Miscommunication, manual errors, and the inability to revert outsourced tests can disrupt operations and reduce efficiency.
  4. Bulk Processing Difficulties Managing high volumes of tests for outsourcing is time-intensive, especially when done manually or without a streamlined system.
How MocDoc LIMS Provides a Seamless Solution

1. Simplified Test Mapping and Setup

  • Laboratories can create a comprehensive directory of external labs where samples are sent.
  • Each test can be mapped to one or more outsourced labs, complete with detailed pricing information.
  • The system supports unlimited lab mappings per test, offering maximum flexibility for various collaborations.
2. Streamlined Outsourcing Process

  • From Order Management: Users can outsource tests directly from the Order Management screen with a single click, selecting the appropriate lab from a prompt showing mapped labs and charges.
  • Bulk Outsourcing: The Outsource Management screen allows multiple tests to be outsourced simultaneously, saving significant time and effort.
3. Test Requisition Forms (TRFs) for Seamless Handover

  • MocDoc LIMS generates detailed TRFs for each outsourced test, ensuring smooth handovers between labs.
  • TRFs include critical details such as patient information, sample specifics, and lab origin and destination.
4. Real-Time Status Tracking

  • Laboratories gain visibility into the progress of outsourced tests with real-time updates on stages like "Sample Taken", "Completed", "Approved" and "Printed".
  • This feature ensures accountability and prevents any test from being overlooked.
5. Flexible Error Handling

  • Mistakes in outsourcing can be corrected seamlessly. Tests can be reverted to their original state and re-outsourced or retained for in-house processing.
  • This flexibility minimizes disruptions to workflow and maintains operational efficiency.
Key Benefits of MocDoc LIMS for Outsource Management

  1. Accuracy and Transparency TRFs, detailed mapping, and real-time tracking eliminate errors and provide a clear audit trail for all outsourced tests.
  2. Improved Workflow Efficiency Bulk outsourcing, automated processes, and easy error handling reduce manual effort and save time.
  3. Enhanced Flexibility Handle unexpected scenarios with ease, such as outsourcing previously in-house tests or reverting mistakes.
  4. Better Collaboration Seamless communication with external labs ensures timely results and better overall management.
A Game-Changer for Laboratory Outsourcing

By addressing the core challenges laboratories face in outsourcing tests, MocDoc LIMS offers a solution that boosts efficiency, maintains accuracy, and enhances patient care. Its Outsource Management feature empowers labs to navigate the complexities of outsourcing with confidence, ensuring operational excellence and peace of mind.

For laboratories looking to overcome outsourcing challenges, MocDoc LIMS is the ultimate partner in streamlining operations and delivering reliable results.

Overcoming Outsourcing Ch...

Outsourcing tests is a critical aspect of laboratory operatio.....

Published by: Mohammed Siddiq 2024113010:48:03