THE Discreet charm of preanalytics

Improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of institutional laboratory services

Abstract

Laboratory diagnostics are of decisive importance in the operation of the health care system. In addition to its role in medical decision support, it is also a significant cost factor. The constantly increasing number of cases poses a serious challenge in the organization and quality operation of laboratory services. In this article, the author wishes to draw attention to the importance of the pre-analytical phase of the laboratory diagnostic process, and to a methodology that can be used in this phase to improve the quality, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the service. The process description, called the ARCO-P model, was created during the development and operation of the experiences gained in connection with the laboratory diagnostic operation of health institutions in Hungary and the related processes. In its practical implementation, supporting IT is essential. Healthcare developments and operations require significant resources. Designing an operation according to the ARCO-P model is an investment that pays off in the short term because it results in efficient and cost-effective operation. What is particularly interesting is the active involvement of the patient in the management of their own patient journey. Extensive application of the methodology could have a positive effect on the entire care system.