Narrative interpretations for clinical laboratory evaluations: an overview.

A. S. Dighe, B. L. Soderberg, M. Laposata

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

38 Scopus citations

Abstract

As the clinical laboratory test menu has significantly expanded in volume and complexity, there is a rapidly growing need by clinicians for narrative interpretations of complex studies that resemble those provided in anatomic pathology and radiology. In this report, the impact of advice on laboratory test selection and interpretation is presented with regard to providing adequate quality of care, reducing medical error, and reducing the cost for health care. In addition, past and current attempts to address the physician's need for advice on laboratory test selection and interpretation are also described. These include curbside consultations, intelligent laboratory information systems, and medical information from the Internet. Each is presented with examples from the literature and with its advantages and disadvantages for practicing clinicians confronting large, expensive test menus and the results of esoteric assays.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)S123-128
JournalAmerican journal of clinical pathology
Volume116 Suppl
StatePublished - Dec 2001
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pathology and Forensic Medicine

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