Whole Slide Imaging Integration with Lab Information Systems, a Study of the Requirements, Processes and Procedures Enabling a Reporting-Based Workflow

Background

Significant advances have been achieved in the clinical implementation of digital pathology (DP) whole slide imaging (WSI). However, the workflow of the reporting process and the full integration of this technology into the lab and hospital information system have not been sufficiently addressed. There is not sufficient vendor and industry consideration for this in the development and implementation process.

Methods

Exploring the requirements of direct integration of WSI with the lab and hospital information systems, demonstrating the workflow, challenges and best practices. Mapping and refining the process of movement of the digital slides. The anatomical pathology team, in collaboration with information technology and the vendor, establish the required scripts in order to enable direct integration, therefore allowing the laboratory a highly automated system of case, slide, and report movement.

Results

Direct integration was achieved fulfilling the required goals specified by the workflow mapping. An automated case movement process was established in order to enable the pathologist a work management process from the digital platform. The integration errors and challenges were audited and reported.

Conclusion

WSI digital pathology integration is achievable; however, it requires significant resource allocation adding to the technology acquirement.

Other Information

Published in: Pathology and Laboratory Medicine International
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
See article on publisher's website: https://dx.doi.org/10.2147/plmi.s388981