An API is an application programming interface. It allows software applications to share, exchange and use data securely. APIs allow developers to open up their application’s functionality and data to other developers within and outside their companies. APIs allow providers’ EHRs to communicate with laboratory information systems LIS in healthcare. Suppose you are interested in integrating your LIS and EHR. In that case, one of the most efficient ways to achieve this is to develop or use a custom API for laboratory to EHR interoperability.
Here are five reasons your organization should deploy an API for your lab.
1. Rapid Application Development
APIs have altered the way developers write code. Instead of writing millions of lines for each application, they can speed up using APIs. APIs allow health IT developers to write far less from scratch. For example, with API-based data sharing standards like FHIR, developers can pull lab results from resources and allow end-users to see test order results through a simple web interface.
2. Mobile Device Integration
Physicians and patients now expect lab results to come into their portals on their smartphones. One of the ways to ensure that this works seamlessly is to use APIs. APIs can connect the lab information system to the provider’s EHR to receive the results of lab tests. As soon as these results are obtained, the EHR can send alert notifications to the physician and the patient. Providing automated test results delivery enables physicians to deliver treatment faster and more accurately.
3. Quick and Error-free Ordering of Lab Tests
When a lab deploys an API for lab test orders, it can rapidly boost the number of test orders. Physicians will use their EHR to order directly from the lab with minimal retyping and data entry. Automated data entry can reduce errors due to incomplete or incorrect patient data. Test orders may also be checked for eligibility to reduce the occurrence of denied claims, thereby boosting revenues.
4. Integration for Decision Support
A lab information system holds data that can provide actionable insights to lab managers. However, most LIS don’t have the interfaces for robust analytics. Important information about test order utilization, staff productivity, and trends in test orders may be extracted from an LIS for effective decision-making. APIs enable integration between the LIS and analytics software.
The connectivity allows lab managers to get real-time access to trends analysis, detailed reports on lab tests, delays, and other insights that can improve workflow and efficiency in the laboratory.
5. More Effective Outreach
Through the flexibility offered by APIs, lab owners can make connections with new clients. Lab outreach is more effective when labs provide web portals for test ordering and results. This gives the lab owners access to a steady stream of new clients who ultimately boost revenue. Developing APIs for your lab is a rewarding investment. However, due to the complex nature of health IT APIs, you need to work with an interoperability expert.
Connect With an Expert Developer of API for Lab Systems
Get in touch with us at Lifepoint Informatics by calling 877.522.8378 today. Schedule a live demo session by visiting our contact page now.