In working with pathology labs for the last several years, one common theme we hear related to their system environments is that work-arounds are a reality. They continually look for ways to serve their referring physicians and healthcare partners better and with more efficiency by making investments in technology. The issue that many are running into is that while they want to offer more servicing options, they feel overwhelmed by the thought of replacing their legacy system. While their big box, enterprise solution may not offer the servicing functionality or flexibility they want, the lab has made a large investment of time and money into the system and the processes it supports.
Migration vs. Wholesale Replacement
In our experience with labs of all shapes and sizes the least disruptive approach is the best for everyone.
At Pathagility, we have positioned our products and services to support this issue through a migration strategy. We do not force our lab clients to make a full system (LIS) replacement; but instead, we offer them a way to enhance their current system environment. We certainly enjoy opportunities of showing the contrast in TCO value and functionality between our web-based (SaaS) LIS compared to other traditional LIS systems, but we feel it is important to provide products and services that work in conjunction and enhance the lab’s current system investment. Check out our recent post about partnering with vendors that may have competing products called Enemies and Friends.
Also, have a look at our case study with UNC Nephropathology. UNC was a case where they had a legacy system through the hospital that they were not ready to replace but they wanted to offer a marketable way to collaborate better with referring physicians and provide lab reports in multiple ways.